Meet Lydia Yang, a member of the 2020 graduating class of HELM Leadership Fellows!

Name: Lydia Yang

What college/university will you be graduating from?

Chapman University

Majoring in….

Major: Health Sciences

Minor: Psychology

What was your motivation for deciding your major(s)?

I chose to major in Health Sciences because it gave me the chance to not only learn about the biological or physiological functions of the human body, but also the social and cultural aspects that influence health. Rather than simply studying the scientific explanations of how our bodies function, my major allows me to dig deeper and consider the social determinants of health.

Where do you see yourself five years from now?

Five years from now, I see myself either continuing my studies or working somewhere within the healthcare field.

What advice would you give the Freshman year version of yourself?

Be open to change! No matter how much we plan our lives and our futures, you never know where your life may lead you. It is okay to be yourself and to go through life at your own pace. Don’t let anyone dictate how your life should be led. As one of my closest friends likes to say, “Breathe deep and let sunshine into your soul!”

If you had a talk show, who would your first three guests be?

Jennifer Worth (British nurse and author), Lindsey Stirling (violinist), and Lydia of Thyatira (from the Bible)

How has your vision of the future been enhanced by your time in the Leadership Fellowship?

My time in the Leadership Fellowship has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities of God’s calling. I have been able to build a community and share in the experience of learning and listening to the stories of many people. I have been given the opportunity to not only grow as a leader but to also explore the many ways we are called to be leaders, which is often in ways we never expect.

Updated bio:

Lydia Yang will be graduating from Chapman University with a degree in Health Sciences (emphasis in pre-med) and a minor in Psychology this spring. She is an active member of the Disciples on Campus group for DOC/UCC students at Chapman and works in the Office of Church Relations as the worship intern for the weekly DOC worships. Lydia also volunteers at a local hospital in helping patients and nurses within a variety of departments. Recently, Lydia has found an interest in public/global health and hopes to pursue a career where she can best help those in need.