Meet the Class of 2027

Point’s newest students come from all over the world and the far corners of the United States. This class includes students whose high school experience was greatly disrupted by the COVID pandemic. They are scholars, student-athletes, legacy students, first-generation students and more. Read on to meet seven Skyhawks who are beginning their Point journey!

Aaliyah Lobendahn
Exercise Science Major | Volleyball
Orem, Utah

What strengths do you bring to the University? Since I was little, my parents have been rooting for me to do the best I can, whether it was from sports to school to learning how to do something new for the first time. Their encouragement has taught me to persevere during tough times, ask questions when I do not understand, and how to help others when they are stuck. As a student, I have learned that not every day is going to be easy; some days are going to be extremely difficult. When I attend Point, I want to help others and learn from them along the way, because my true strengths come from working with others to achieve a common goal.

Why did you choose Point?
When I first visited campus, it was near the end of the semester, and there were only a handful of students left before the school year was over. I was a little surprised to see how small it was; I come from a bigger hometown and was not sure what I would be shown, but what I got to see with the few students left was a supportive staff and a tight-knit group of students. I felt very welcomed, and it made me excited to soon be a part of that culture.

What is one thing you’ve accomplished that you’re really proud of?
Becoming a college athlete is something I hold dear to my heart, and it fills me with immense joy and pride. It was a dream I nurtured, inspired by my family’s footsteps, but at times, I found myself doubting if I could truly make it. Yet, through every challenging moment, I refused to give up. This achievement isn’t just about a sports scholarship; it represents a part of my soul poured into something I deeply love. It symbolizes resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief in myself even when the path seemed uncertain. Every time I step onto the court now, I carry with me the memories of the journey that led me here.

What are you most looking forward to during your time at Point?
I look forward to meeting new people, making long-lasting friendships, and having a new family away from home.

Callum Thompson
Elementary Education Major | Soccer
West Sussex, England

What do you plan to major in, and why?
I am planning to major in elementary education, as teaching is a career path that I would like to pursue going forward. I found my passion for working with children by being a sports/soccer coach over the last two years, where I realized that this was something that I really enjoyed.

Did you have an opportunity to visit the campus? If not, how did you feel comfortable choosing Point?
I felt comfortable choosing Point having not visited the campus thanks to the campus tours on YouTube and the information on the Point website. The school is also in a good location, not too far from a big city, Atlanta, and other areas such as West Point Lake, so lots to do in and around the area, too.

What does being successful mean to you?
To me, being successful is about making progress each day, no matter how big or small, and no matter the field. Success, in my opinion, is about pushing yourself to be the best you can and always putting in effort.

What are you most looking forward to during your time at Point?
I am most looking forward to being able to play soccer on a very regular basis, improving myself athletically, and also being able to simultaneously get a degree in elementary education. I am also very much looking forward to the diversity of the soccer team and learning about new cultures and a different way of living in what is a foreign country for me.

Jasmyn Caesar
Marketing Major | Volleyball
Columbus, Georgia

What strengths do you bring to the University? The strengths that I bring to Point University are that I am very compassionate, and I am very caring. I feel like it’s a good strength to have when at a university or anywhere.

Why did you choose Point?
I chose Point because as soon as I stepped foot on campus, I felt comfortable, and everyone was just so welcoming and helpful. It’s very close to home, and the class size is just what I need to help me learn and focus better.

What is a world problem you would like to change?
A big world problem I would like to change would have to be violence. Violence exists everywhere, and if I could change it, I would.

What is one thing you’ve accomplished that you’re really proud of?
Something that I have accomplished that I am really proud of is not giving up. I was going through something I thought would never get better. I put all my faith in God and hoped that he would help me get through the battle I was fighting.

What does being successful mean to you?
Successful to me means accomplishing a goal that you set for yourself. I also think it means to do something that makes others feel good.

Saige Roche
Business Major | Football
Woodbine, Georgia

What strengths do you bring to the University?
I plan to bring a great leadership role to the team as a new guy and lead by example.

Why did you choose Point?
I chose Point University because of the family feeling it gave me. I loved the small, home feeling I discovered while visiting the campus.

Who do you consider a role model in your life?
My dad is the biggest role model to me. He taught me the ropes of life and how to provide for myself.

What is one thing you’ve accomplished that you’re really proud of?
I have come to face many challenges in my life, and one thing that I’m proud of myself for is never giving up. Even when the times got rough, and I didn’t think I was going to be able to pull through, I kept my head up and never looked down. God has proven to me that there is a reason to be here and continue chasing my dreams.

Savannah Hancock
Elementary Education Major | Marching Band
Manchester, Georgia

Why did you choose Point?
I first heard about Point University from my cousin, Faith Pearson Generis ’20, the volleyball coach. I decided that it wouldn’t hurt to come and tour the campus. When I came I met a lot of new, friendly people. I really enjoyed the small-town environment and the fact that it was close to home. Another major plus for me was that I am able to continue my love of twirling and become a majorette with the Marching Skyhawks this fall. I believe this is exactly where God is calling me to be! I am a very faith-oriented person, and it is comforting to know that I am in a place with others that share my same beliefs.

What have you read recently that has impacted or changed how you view the world?
Recently the most inspiring thing I have read is the quote “The Expert in anything was once a Beginner.”

What is a world problem you would like to change?
So many things happen in this world because children do not get the love and attention they need and deserve. I hope that one day I can be that person for someone.

Leah Prather
Business Major | Flag Football
Fortson, Georgia

Why did you choose Point?
I chose Point because I wanted to go to school in a place where I was able to serve the Lord and learn how to further his kingdom. Point was a perfect fit for me.

What have you read recently that has impacted or changed how you view the world?
I’ve read that the Gospel has not reached much of the world. I want to do what I can to change that and spread the Gospel all throughout the world. I want to grow God’s kingdom and lead others to Christ.

Who do you consider a role model in your life?
My parents have given me a great example on how to be a good Christian and leader. They have sacrificed for me and taught me just about everything I know. I couldn’t be more grateful for them and what they’ve done for me.

What is one thing you’ve accomplished that you’re really proud of?
I am proud of playing flag football here at Point [ed.note: Leah was the first recruit!]. I am super grateful to have the opportunity to play this sport that many places don’t have.

Djuan Toomer
Accounting Major | Lacrosse
Dundalk, Maryland

What strengths do you bring to the University?
I bring my athleticism to Point, as I hope to lead our lacrosse program to much success this season.

Why did you choose Point?
I chose Point because of the academic and sport opportunities, and that at Point, you feel cared about, like you matter here.

Did you have an opportunity to visit the campus? If so, what was your impression?
I’m just seeing the campus in person today! I’m already in love with the University, and I hope to get to experience everything Point has to offer.

What is a world problem you would like to change?
I would solve poverty. How, exactly, I’m unsure, but I believe everyone should have a right to basic needs like food, water and shelter.

What is one thing you’ve accomplished that you’re really proud of?
I’m really proud of completing high school and making it into a university such as Point.

Be on the lookout for more new student profiles on social media this month!