In Awe of Creation
Ada Smies began her education at Dordt University studying chemistry. “I loved how it shows the intricate details of God’s creation,” she says.
However, as her studies progressed, she realized she was equally passionate about something else—helping others find joy and awe in the details of creation. Ultimately, this led her to a new calling: teaching. Now a junior at Dordt, Smies is studying secondary chemistry, physics, and earth science education, preparing her to “share that awe for God’s works with high school students in the future.”
During her time at Dordt, Smies has been intentional about pursuing opportunities that enrich her studies across scientific disciplines. She is an active member of both the Faith and Science Club and the Women in Science and Engineering Club at Dordt. Additionally, as a sophomore, she was selected as a Noyce Scholar, a recognition of her commitment to science education, which provided her with a unique internship opportunity
at Alma College in Alma, Michigan, further equipping her for her future career as a teacher.
“This summer, I participated in the Noyce internship for future secondary STEM teachers,” says Smies. “Through this internship, I gained hands-on lab research experience and had opportunities to present my research. I was also able to apply my research experience to unit planning and identified some key science practices that prepare students to actively engage with science after high school."
"This internship gave me valuable insight into what it’s like to bridge science research and teaching,” reflects Smies. “I learned how to communicate scientific ideas clearly and think creatively about lesson design.”
Smies’ internship was, according to her, a seamless extension of her studies at Dordt. “My classes at Dordt really emphasized both content knowledge and the ‘why’ behind teaching,” she says. “The education program helped me think deeply about how to design lessons that connect faith, curiosity, and critical thinking. At the same time, my chemistry and physics courses gave me a strong foundation for the nanoparticle research we did in the lab.”
Not only did this internship give Smies unique opportunities to expand her knowledge and skills, but it also challenged her to recognize her own strength and the value of community. “My experiences during the internship helped reaffirm my confidence in my ability to persist wherever God calls me,” says Smies. “It took time to adjust to living in a new place where I didn’t know anyone and didn’t have a faith-based community to rely on.”
For Smies, building meaningful connections with others was one of the draws to Dordt. While she had known about Dordt before visiting, it was “the community, the faith-centered learning, and the sense of purpose I saw in the people here really drew me in,” she says.
Throughout her studies, co-curriculars, and even an internship off campus, Smies found that she had a supportive community in all things. “My favorite memories and experiences revolve around the people I’ve met at Dordt,” says Smies. “You can tell when a professor or classmate wants to support you and see you succeed.”
“Through the Faith and Science and Women in Science and Engineering clubs, I’ve found great community and encouragement to see my faith and calling in science as deeply connected,” she adds.
Through her involvement as a teaching assistant and tutor, Smies has also found the opportunity to provide support and encouragement to others on campus. “Being a TA and tutor has strengthened my communication and leadership skills, and it’s been rewarding to help other students learn,” she says.
“I’ve learned to see God’s presence not just in chapel or Bible classes, but in the way creation itself reveals His order and creativity through science."
Above all, Smies is grateful for the way Dordt has prepared her for the future, especially in viewing all areas of life through the lens of faith. “I’ve really appreciated Dordt’s emphasis on seeing faith as connected to every part of life,” she explains. “Whether in science, education, or everyday conversations, I’ve been encouraged to think about how my faith shapes the way I learn and teach. That integration ahs been one of the most lasting impacts of my time at Dordt.”
“My faith has grown deeper and more personal,” Smies continues. “I’ve learned to see God’s presence not just in chapel or Bible classes, but in the way creation itself reveals His order and creativity through science. Dordt has helped me see my future teaching not just as a job, but as a calling to serve and reflect Christ in the classroom.”
