Jen (Heise) Córdova ('98)

 

1) What is your current position?
Missionary linguist with Wycliffe Bible Translators

2) Briefly describe the path that led you to your current position.
At Houghton, I was introduced (by the professor teaching linguistics) to the need for Bible translation around the world. After taking an exploratory summer trip to Papua New Guinea between my freshman and sophomore years, I saw that God could indeed use my gifts in Bible translation and that he was calling me to that area of work/ministry. After graduation I applied to Wycliffe Bible Translators and then got further training in linguistics before beginning to minister in Mexico.

3) What proved to be the strengths of the Houghton foreign language program for you personally?
I am very thankful for the encouragement to study abroad and the support I received from the college to apply for a program and attend.

4) What helped prepare you the most for future study or service?
Experience abroad.

5) What advice on career/vocational preparation would you give to current or prospective students pursuing a major in Foreign Languages at Houghton College?  
Immerse yourself in your language of study as early and as much as possible.

6) How has your Christian faith influenced your life path?
My "work" has been a calling. Since I wanted to glorify God and serve Him in anything that I did, when He showed me how he could effectively use my gifts, I got on board and followed.