Porter Hobbs
Graduation Year
2026
Hometown/Where You Call Home
Brevard, NC
Major
Biology, Biomedical Concentration
How did you hear about Covenant and why did you choose Covenant?
I heard about Covenant through a family friend, and added it to my list simply because it was a smaller school. When I got the chance to tour campus, I was able to see what makes this place so special. On that initial visit I didn't get to talk to any students beyond my tour guide, but something about the physical spaces and atmosphere of the mountain captured me. I remember leaving the campus and knowing that Covenant was where I would end up. As I went through the scholarship process, I got to meet more amazing students and faculty that only served to reinforce my decision, and Covenant has been my home ever since.
What aspect of Covenant do you like best?
The answer you hear a lot is community, but it's true! Not only have my roommates become my closest friends over my time at Covenant, the people that have walked the same path as me in my major have shared in some of the hardest and most rewarding experiences in college. That kind of camaraderie is so valuable, and it has been such a joy at Covenant.
What about the professors and/or academics has impacted you the most?
The small class size has been such a benefit, because it means the professors can get to know each student and take time to answer questions and offer office hours. I have been so impacted by professors that clearly care about me as a person, not just my grades. The classes also challenge me and give me the chance to push myself, which is so valuable.
What part of your major do you most enjoy or feel most prepared by?
I have really enjoyed the upper level biology and chemistry classes, because the labs are so practical and have taught me core competencies that I'll use in my work for years after Covenant.
What do you hope to pursue after Covenant and how do you see Covenant supporting your future career or calling?
I hope to go to medical school and then further specialize, into what I'm not sure. Covenant has helped me grow and actually become more comfortable with the unknown of what exact type of practice, so I am excited to discover the different options.
How is Covenant equipping you for active membership in the church or discipleship within the body of Christ?
Not only has Covenant been encouraging as I found a church home in Chattanooga, I am also given so many opportunities to practice serving my community both on and off campus. Additionally, the faculty at Covenant are such role models for faithful service in the church, and I get the chance to learn from them each and every day.
In what ways does Covenant foster spiritual formation that stands out to you?
One of my favorite ways that Covenant encourages spiritual formation is the abundance of community worship. Not only do I get the chance to sing with my campus at every chapel, they also coordinate worship nights and events throughout the semester. They never fail to lift me up and help reorient my heart during the busy times of the semester.
How has the Covenant community supported your development as a whole person?
Covenant has provided a place where I am challenged and encouraged in all areas of my life to grow and become more like Jesus. My academics are fascinating and have pushed forward my professional development through club events and connections. I have connected with a local church, but I'm also involved in Prayer and Praise on my hall and worship nights around campus. Living with roommates for three years has pushed me and given me some of my closest friends. All of this is happening at once, and I can easily say that I am not the person I was when I started here. Covenant has helped shape and grow me as I've spent time and effort at this place; it is a great encouragement.
How have your relationships at Covenant shaped your expectations for the other communities God will call you to in life?
My time at Covenant has given me a glimpse of what a true flourishing community can be. One of my favorite quotes about great Christian community is that a flourishing community is a place where the strong can be vulnerable and the weak are welcomed. I don't think any earthly thing can capture this entirely; it is an image of perfection we only see in Heaven. However, in certain seasons of my time at Covenant I have seen it reflected. My relationships here have lifted me up out of darkness, and humbly reminded me that I need the light. Going forward, I will be looking for ways to inspire this kind of community wherever the Lord places me.
What is your favorite memory from your time at Covenant?
Getting to be the opening act for Mountain Affair 2024 (a campus wide concert)! Performing with my full band in front of the entire school was unforgettable and electric.