THERE IS MORE THE REEF Sophomore Sharon Ah Ping found a new home far from American Samoa. Avillage called 'Ili'ili, on the Southwestpart of the American Samoanisland Tutuila, was once home to sophomore nutrition and dietetics major Sharon Ah Ping. Ah Ping first heard of Harding University through missionaries Randy and SharonEnglish. When it came time to apply for college, Ah Ping applied only to church of Christ universities, but chose Harding, feeling it was the best fit for her. The first time Ah Ping stepped foot on Harding' campus was on move-in day in fall 2017. The only other time Ah Ping had seen Harding was through the online virtual tour. During Ah Ping's time at Harding, she studied to become a registered dietician, was a member of women's social club SigmaPhi Mu and worked in the media center. Debbie Stewart, manager of the Media Center, met Ah Ping at Foothills Church of Christ during Ah Ping's freshman year. Ah Ping spent rime at Stewart's home during her time at Harding, and they became very close. Stewart then hired Ah Ping to work for her in the media center in August 2018. "Sharon is a delightful person who is loved by everyone who knows her," Stewartsaid. "She brings joy to those around her because the love of God shinesthrough her. Sharonhas a quick smile and a contagious laugh, and sheis always willing to help chose who need it." Sophomore NoahEnglish met Ah Ping while his family served as missionaries in American Samoa. During the family's time spent in the American Samoan islands, they attended the 'Ili'ili Church of Christ and became friends with the Ah Ping family. "I grew up with Sharon," English said. "She is basically family to us. It is amazing to seehow she has grown. Sharonhas done really well with adapting to how things go around here." Ah Ping appreciated the independence she was able to develop by being far from home. She said she also appreciated people like Stewartand English who made her feel like part of their families in the U.S. "Since attending schoolhere, I have learned to become more independent," Ah Ping said. "I have always loved that about myself. That is how my parents raised me, so I can go out into the world and be ready for whatever comes my way." After graduation, Ah Ping hoped to move back to American Samoa for three years to work as a registered dietician in the local hospital. story by Haley Hood On Oct. 29, 2018 on the Front Lawn, sophomore SharonAh Ping says she appreciates people who make herfeel at home at Harding University. Ah Pingfaund a home at Harding, and, even though her home in American Samoa was 6,187 miles away, she stillfound love and a sense ofbelonging from herfriends. I photo by Lindsey Webb 157 I SOPHOMORES
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