Nicholas Ravi-Johnson
Acting Area Director for Young Life, Head Boys Tennis Coach at Mariner High School
Everett, Washington
Business Administration major 2013
Through Young Life, Ravi-Johnson does cross-cultural relational ministry serving a diverse group of high school students. He hopes to build relationships within his neighborhood and help students experience the Gospel.
How does your time at SPU connect to the work you’re doing today?
I live and work in a multi-cultural area. The curriculum at SPU did a great job of breaking down walls and preconceived ideas I grew up with, ultimately challenging me to back up my beliefs theologically, socially, and culturally. SPU had us spend time in different churches, consider multiple views of the Bible, and learn about different traditions. By SPU challenging my beliefs and spending time with people of much different experiences, I reached this conclusion: We, as Christians, need to bring the Good News back to the Gospel.
Who made a difference in your SPU education?
Dr. Jim Rand completely revamped the way I think. His ability to encourage students to process things critically and strategically laid a foundation to how I view everything. Dr. Dan Hess believed in a group of students and helped us start the Student Investment Fund. He gave me a shot at starting something great, and encouraged us to build upon it.
What advice do you have for students about life after graduation?
In everything you do, don’t lose sight of, or hope in, the Gospel. Regardless of your circumstances, God can meet you there.