Bollen has visited 28 countries since graduating college.
Courtesy | Rebekah Bollen
In this Quick Hits, Dean of Women Rebekah Bollen discusses the Upper Peninsula, Dean of Men Aaron Petersen, and popcorn with peanut butter M&Ms.
What is the strangest food you’ve ever eaten?
Haggis in Scotland stands out as one of the most memorable things I’ve eaten, and one I’d prefer not to repeat.
Where are you from, and what’s the best thing about home?
I was born and raised in Wilmington, Ohio, in the country on a small hobby farm. All of my extended family lived in the same town, which I knew was special growing up, and I’ve only grown in gratitude for the opportunity to have such a close-knit family. Home has always been and will always be one of my favorite places.
What is your favorite movie and why?
“Far and Away.” This is purely a nostalgic pick. I can still remember watching it for the first time on a family vacation. The lead character’s love of the land always tugs at my heart. To quote a line from the opening scene: “Without land, a man is nothing. Land is a man’s very own soul.”
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
If I had to venture a guess, I imagine I will be planning another bucket list trip with my husband, perhaps finally checking off Antarctica, working for the college, trying a new creative hobby, and tending to rows and rows of beautiful flowers growing on a piece of land in the country.
If you could listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
How is this the hardest question!? Can I pick silence? I love music, but I find that I choose silence more and more with each passing year. I love all that you can notice in life when there isn’t a constant playlist in the background.
What is an accomplishment you’re most proud of?
I’ve visited 28 countries since graduating college, and that number and all the memories it represents always reminds me of a journey in my 20s and 30s that I’m proud of. Recently, I completed my first through-hike on the Pictured Rocks Trail in the Upper Peninsula, covering 20 miles on day one. It pushed me physically in a new way and was a fun challenge.
What appealed to you about the dean of women job?
I began my career at the college as the director of student activities, and I quickly fell in love with the daily contact with students, faculty, and staff. The work is challenging, dynamic, and full of purpose. The mission and the people drew me to the work, but it is my conviction that daily service to our campus, particularly to the women of the campus, is one of the most important ways I can spend my days.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Though it has been several decades since I was a Hillsdale student, I still recall and sometimes share words of caution from my father. He told me that while college is a great gift, a set of years dedicated to learning, discernment, and preparation, this time focused on the self is not meant to be selfish. He urged me to be mindful of growing in selflessness, not selfishness. I believe this wisdom applies to many stages of life, not just the college years.
Favorite late-night snack?
Popcorn with Peanut Butter M&Ms.
What is everyday life like working for the college?
No day is ever the same, and the work shifts with the academic seasons. An average day includes four to five hours of meetings with students, a few hours for projects or meetings with staff across different departments, and managing the constant influx of emails. More importantly, the days are often filled with friendship, joy, and energy as we’re surrounded by students and fellow staff who are on mission and grateful to be part of the Hillsdale community.
What was the funniest thing you’ve experienced as the dean of women?
Is there anything funnier than working with Dean Petersen on a daily basis?
What are your favorite fall activities?
Long drives down country roads in the early evening light, coffee shop stops for a seasonal beverage, and hikes with my husband.
Coffee or tea?
I love coffee, though I am becoming quite partial to a good matcha latte.
What encouragement do you have for the freshmen this year?
Create a weekly rhythm of reflection, apply what you learn, and be present each day. “The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” —Lamentations 3:22-23
What is a valued lesson you’ve learned as the dean of women?
Surround yourself with honest, godly, and passionate people who will continually challenge you to grow, grieve with you.
