Humans of NGU: Sarah Smith, missionary kid
Hannah Bridges, Contributing Writer
Sarah Smith knows all about living on the mission field. She, her older brother, two older sisters and parents were previously missionaries in Africa. As a result, Smith lived outside of the United States for the majority of her childhood.
One of Smith’s favorite aspects about growing up in Africa was the culture in which she was able to immerse herself. There were very few modern conveniences such as cell phones, unlimited internet or Wal-Mart stores. This is the kind of culture that many U.S. citizens have only read about at best, and Smith believes that she has a unique advantage because of where she was raised.
“I feel like my life is different because I look at the world through the perspective of an American but also through the perspective of having seen and lived in a third-world country all my life,” Smith reflected. She can appreciate the comforts of the United States but is also acutely aware of what it is like in places less fortunate.
Smith’s parents home-schooled both her and her siblings during their time in Africa, giving them an education that is also unique in contrast to the majority of students in the United States. Her home-schooling years developed her love for history, and she is now a sophomore history major here at NGU.
“I love it, but it involves a lot of research and writing,” Smith said, grimacing.
Smith does not believe that her time as a missionary influenced her decision to major in history in any way. She based her choice purely off her interests. Smith does think that pursuing a major in history major could be useful on the missionary field, though.
“It could probably be a platform for a missionary when heading overseas. And if they are a teacher, they could teach history!”
