From the idyllic Belgian countryside, Charlotte Manning BA ’17 reflected on her time stateside at North Park University. The writer and model recently concluded a vacation in Spain but said she missed North Park’s tree-lined campus more.

Manning studied creative writing and global studies with a minor in Swedish. She considers herself lucky to utilize the skills she gained through each area of study.

“As a freelancer, I focus on a mix of everything I learned,” said Manning. “I write, edit, moderate panels, speak at events, and run workshops. It all falls under the umbrella of my degree, but I also have the flexibility to try new things.”

A Covenant camp kid, Manning had countless family members attend North Park. When she chose to become a Viking herself, she said finding her place in North Park’s Evangelical Covenant Church (ECC) community was effortless.

It really is true that one extraordinary teacher telling you you’re good at something can put you in the right direction for life.

After graduation, Manning took “a leap of faith.” She moved to Stockholm for a social media job, then strived for a writing career. Recently, she hosted a writing workshop at art museum Fotografiska Stockholm, where she spoke about her favorite professors.

“I shared my story about becoming a writer, and I couldn’t do that without mentioning my English professor, Kristy Odelius,” Manning said. “She was the first to tell me I should pursue a writing career. It really is true that one extraordinary teacher telling you you’re good at something can put you in the right direction for life.”

Manning said she’s especially grateful for the values North Park and the ECC instilled in her.

“North Park was the perfect school for me, my career, and my life. I’m still close friends with my North Park classmates and former camp counselors,” she said. “It’s a special piece of my life I will always hold close.”