Joy Chilala

Joy Chilala's journey from Zambia to the United States to attend Cornerstone University was thrilling and challenging. The harsh Midwestern winters she encountered starkly contrasted Zambia's mild climate, but the culture shock was more severe. Joy found it difficult to deeply connect with her peers, and longed for the intentional community she'd known in Zambia. 

In time, Joy's Cornerstone experience improved. Through her Resident Advisor role, she discerned her calling to student development. After graduating, a close friend recommended Wheaton's HESD program to her and she found it to be a great fit. 

At Wheaton, Joy has found that her cross-cultural experiences enhance to the field of higher education. As someone who navigates between Zambian and American cultures, she offers a unique perspective to her classmates and professors, and enjoys sharing her cultural heritage with them. Joy has found great value in the diversity of the HESD community, which is comprised of students from all over the world. She finds the fact that God has brought such different people together, and enjoys sharing her culture by making her classmates traditional Zambian meals. 

In her HESD classes, Joy has gained skills vital to student development such as conflict resolution, which she utilizes frequently in her Resident Director role. She also has learned that the majority of student formation takes place outside of academic settings. This insight has deepened her commitment to creating spaces outside the classroom where students can connect, grow, and develop holistically.

Joy is eager to continue her work in higher education, specifically in the field of student engagement and involvement. She hopes to continue in her current line of work with Wheaton's College Union and apply her knowledge to support students. Her dedication to helping students from diverse backgrounds feel seen, supported, and valued as they navigate the complexities of higher education will benefit any higher education institution she serves.