Ben Hoekstra '16
FINDING GOD’S CALL IN CHICAGO
Ben Hoekstra ’16 has a few things in common with William Shakespeare. Not only do Hoekstra and the Bard share a birthday (April 23), but Hoekstra is getting an up-close-look at Shakespeare’s work while serving as a marketing intern at Chicago Shakespeare Theater (CST), located at Navy Pier in downtown Chicago.
A communications arts major with a minor in history, Hoekstra has had the opportunity to do a range of work at the renowned theater during his internship, such as working with the executive team and directors, writing press releases, interacting with the media such as “Chicago Tribune” theater critic Chris Jones, and helping to plan photo shoots. Another perk of the job—spectacular views of the Chicago skyline from the theater company’s location on Lake Michigan. “With this internship, I’m able to see what parts of marketing I like,” said Hoekstra. “And I can continue to see what the Lord is calling me to do.”
Hoekstra’s internship brings together some of his favorite aspects of life at Trinity. “I love being in the city for my internship. Being close to Chicago is part of why I feel called to Trinity,” he said. Working at CST is also allowing him to explore his spirituality in a more secular atmosphere. “One of the lessons I’m learning is taking how I’ve grown spiritually at Trinity and seeing how that impacts my life. I’m in an environment where not everyone is a Christian.”
Spiritual growth has been a significant part of Hoekstra’s education at Trinity. Along with weekly Bible studies with his roommates, he cited Rev. Willis Van Groningen, Ph.D., chaplain and dean of spiritual formation, as a source of inspiration. He has also been involved as a leader of Sunday Snacks and Prayer Ministry. “Now that I have my internship, I miss going to Chapel,” he said.
Hoekstra believes that God worked through Trinity staff to make his attendance at the College possible. In high school, Hoekstra applied for a Founders’ Scholarship, a renewable, full-tuition award available annually to two incoming freshmen who exhibit stellar academic achievements and leadership. “We were moving when the scholarship was due, and my admissions counselor Dave Hoekman emailed me a reminder. I emailed him back to say there was no way I could get it done in time,” he recalled. “Within 10 minutes, Dave called me back and helped me get an extension. The Lord worked through Dave, and that was a very important thing for me. Trinity really came through.”