Inspired by the Humans of New York, I got acquainted with 10 wonderfully unique strangers at Missouri Baptist University this week. I asked people I’d never met to answer a question from a list I created, and we discussed their stories and outlooks on life. Come meet the faces of MoBap.
Graphic and photos by Amelia Shaw
Let me introduce you to Ally Armstrong. Ally is a friendly, fun-loving theatre kid with a bright smile. She told me, “My proudest moment was taking a leap of faith and going to college in a different state. I’m originally from Kentucky, and by choosing to come here, I went off the path most of my family members took. I am very proud of myself for choosing my own journey.”
Let me introduce you to Bram Williams. Bram is a genuine, well-spoken person, and he is a stud athlete. He explained, “I admire my parents’ ability to adapt and let go. I was originally born and raised in Japan, and when I reached my senior year of high school, I decided to go to the U.S. and pursue basketball at a higher level. I had to make that move alone because my parents couldn’t just leave their jobs and come to the states for a while. We found a way for me to move and make it work. I also have an older brother who decided to move away, too. I know that both my brother and I moving away was extremely hard for my parents, but they showed us so much support. They always put my brother and I first, and they have set us up with the best opportunities they can provide. I think they’re the best parents in the world.”
Let me introduce you to Rebekah Haas. Rebekah is generous, easy to talk to, and has great hair. She enthusiastically said, “If someone were to play me in a movie about my life, it would be Lily James. She just looks like me. People say we have the same hair.”
Let me introduce you to Luke Little. Luke is outgoing, silly, and he is willing to help people. He simply said, “One thing that could instantly make my day better would be Chick-fil-A on the beach.”
Let me introduce you to Alanah Williams. Alanah has the sweetest giggle, and anyone can tell that she loves her family a lot. She said, “If I could time travel, I would travel into the next 20 years and go to Mexico with my sister and the rest of my family.”
Let me introduce you to Kelaynew Seyoum. Kelaynew is gracious, compassionate and zealous. He told me, “When I was little, I wanted to be a pilot. I am now graduated from MoBap and currently working on my ministry degree at Covenant Seminary.”
Let me introduce you to Alanah’s twin sister, Aliyah Williams. Aliyah is smart, hardworking and very friendly. Aliyah explained, “When it comes to school, my mom motivates me most. She’s always telling me how important it is that I get my education, so I can be a productive member of society. Without my schooling and education, it would be hard to live. My mom motivates me to do my best.”
Let me introduce you to Joshua Bradbrook. Joshua has the kindest eyes, and he is a thoughtful person. He told me, “I would say my hero is my mother. She has always been there for me, and I would not be who I am without her.”
Let me introduce you to Lily Williams. Lily is helpful and sweet, and while I was talking to her, she had so many people come up and say hi. She told me, “I really like to spend my days off hanging out with the people I love and trying different coffee shops in the city. I also like to read a lot and spend time outside exercising.”
Let me introduce you to Brandon Carter. Brandon is a confident, down-to-earth romantic. With love in his eyes, Brandon told me, “Home is more of a feeling for me. Home isn’t necessarily where you are, it’s the people you’re with. It’s the pursuit of happiness. Life and God take you where you’re supposed to be, and wherever that is, is home. I am originally from Virginia Beach, and I met a girl from Missouri there. When she was done with college, she wanted to move back home. I knew I was going to have to move here if I wanted to continue my relationship with her. I found a career path, and I’m very happy here. This girl and I are now engaged. Home is the connections you make.”
Kate Goodberlet 
Isabel Rinkenberger 
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