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Student Spotlight: Grace Dow
When Grace Dow '25 steps onto the basketball court as a forward for Roberts Wesleyan University, she brings more than just athletic skill – she brings the resilient spirit of her hometown Syracuse, affectionately known as "The Salt City." The Adolescent Education major, specializing in Social Studies, embodies that same salt-of-the-earth quality in her approach to both academics and athletics.
"At first, balancing college basketball with student teaching was overwhelming," Grace admits. "But that's when I learned to truly rely on God. He is a God who loves and cares for what I am going through, and I can trust him. He has a purpose and plan for good over my life."
Her dedication shows in both areas. On the court, Grace has become a key player for the women's basketball team, contributing not just points but also serving as an encourager to her teammates. In the classroom, she's preparing for her future as a high school social studies teacher, bringing the same passion she shows in athletics to engaging future students with history and coaching basketball.
As she finishes her senior year and finishes her final basketball season with the Redhawks, let's learn more about her and how she has grown in ways she never expected at Roberts.
How has Roberts impacted your spiritual journey?
I have been very thankful to have met people here who have encouraged and challenged me in my walk with God. The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) has always been a source of community and encouragement within my faith; it is motivating to see other athletes who also want to honor and glorify God in sports and life. It points to a much bigger picture that we don’t always see what God is doing but can trust that He is always working for good.
What is the best thing about studying your major?
The best thing about studying my major has been my classmates. I’ve been able to grow and learn with some of the same people since my sophomore year, and that has been really cool to see and experience.
What advice would you give to incoming freshmen?
My advice to incoming freshmen would be to be proactive and open to being uncomfortable. It’s a new season in your life, and you'll experience many new things, both good and bad. Be proactive about your education and anything important to you, it is a great skill to learn to advocate for yourself. Be willing to step out of your comfort zone, and when it comes to school, staying organized and proactive about your work is key!
If you could help everyone understand one thing, what would it be and why?
If I could help everyone understand one thing, it would be to be humble. If you are constantly trying to have a humble mindset, you are reflective of who and what you are doing, and this allows you to be more empathic to people with whom you may be upset or disagree. By being humble, you aren’t focused on yourself, and I think culturally, the world would benefit a lot more if we were humble towards one another and willing to step outside of ourselves.
Faculty Feedback:
“Grace is a wonderful person and student. She manages a busy schedule, is able to stay organized through it all, and always completes high-quality work. Grace is a kind, collaborative student and supportive of others. She is engaged in our school community and is respected by professors and her peers. It has been a pleasure having her in our TED program. She will be an amazing educator!”
- Dr. Denise Johnson, Professor of Education
"Having Grace as a student was a pleasure, not only with seeing her growth as a future educator but also as a role model to her peers. Her positive energy and friendly personality helped to foster many interesting and engaging conversations. She will certainly inspire many future students!
- Dr. Emily Robinson, Associate Professor of Education
Coach Feedback:
“Grace Dow exemplifies exceptional teamwork and potential as well as a spirit of excellence. As a promising educator and skilled basketball player, she leaves a meaningful legacy at Roberts as a second-generation student. We’ll miss her basketball contributions on the court next season.”
- Kevin Clifford, Head Coach, Women’s Basketball
