For Grand View University graduate Christine Epple, walking across the commencement stage last Sunday represented far more than earning a degree. It marked the culmination of extraordinary perseverance, faith, and determination.
Christine graduated from the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, completing a rigorous academic journey while courageously battling cancer. Balancing graduate school alone is a significant challenge, but Christine managed to do so while also working full time as a social worker, maintaining an impressive 3.938 GPA, and completing her internship at Cornerstone Counseling Center.
As she begins the next chapter, Christine has already secured full time employment with 515 Therapy and Consulting, where she will continue her passion for helping others through counseling.
Faculty and classmates admired Christine not only for her academic excellence, but for the compassion, resilience, and strength she demonstrated throughout her journey. Her lived experiences have shaped her perspective in meaningful ways, giving her a deep level of empathy and insight that will serve her well in her counseling career.
Christine was also a strong advocate for her experience at Grand View, often speaking positively about the support she found within the university community during some of life’s most difficult moments.
Her story is one of determination and hope, a reminder that even in the face of immense personal challenges, purpose and passion can continue to lead the way.
As Christine crossed the stage last weekend, she did so as a graduate, a survivor, and a future counselor ready to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.