Carter Woetzel, a recent graduate of Bethel University, reflects on his transformative journey through higher education, rooted deeply in both academics and faith. Coming from a Bethel family—three of his siblings had previously attended the university—Woetzel arrived on campus with a sense of familiarity and expectation. Inspired by the stories shared by his siblings about engaged professors and a familial community, he felt drawn to Bethel much more than just a legacy choice.
His academic interests were clear from the outset. Woetzel, who excelled in a rigorous STEM program at Blaine High School, had already accumulated an impressive 57 college credits upon graduation. His active involvement in Business Professionals of America further exposed him to the intersection of technology and business. This blend of skills created a pivotal choice for his higher education path: should he major in computer science or business? A crucial conversation with a Bethel enrollment counselor revealed that he could combine both fields, allowing him to pursue a B.S. in computer science, a B.A. in business with a finance emphasis, and a minor in mathematics—a rigorous yet exciting academic commitment.
Throughout his tenure at Bethel, Woetzel thrived, pushing his intellectual limits and deepening his understanding of both disciplines. The support and mentorship he received from faculty played a significant role in his development. In the Department of Business, Professor Brian Holland ignited Woetzel’s passion for understanding the mechanics of businesses. “Brian did an incredible job teaching us to love how businesses work,” Woetzel noted, emphasizing the conceptual clarity he gained regarding business operations.
On the computer science side, professors Nathan Gossett and Deborah Thomas challenged and supported him throughout his coursework. Woetzel credited Gossett with building the technical foundation necessary for his career, while he praised Thomas for her encouragement and inspiration to realize his own capabilities.
Outside of coursework, Woetzel also took on the role of a computer science tutor, guided by Patrice Conrath. “Patrice is a trooper,” he remarked, highlighting her dedication and the lasting impression she left on him through her faith and work ethic.
A moment of inspiration came during the summer after his sophomore year, when Woetzel was employed at Bethel’s IT help desk. His cousin, a fellow Bethel alum, introduced him to the emerging field of blockchain technology—a revolutionary method for securely recording and sharing data across decentralized networks. Captivated, Woetzel immersed himself in the topic, diligently studying and taking extensive notes. By the end of the summer, he had amassed a substantial collection of insights—40 pages worth—which sparked a new ambition: to potentially write a book on the subject.
Woetzel’s journey at Bethel University not only equipped him with crucial knowledge and skills but also solidified his understanding of the interconnectedness of faith, academics, and professional aspirations. His experience exemplifies how a supportive community and rigorous academic environment can collectively inspire students to explore new frontiers and tackle ambitious goals.
