This January, students could choose between three options: a trip, a class, or an internship. Almost 500 students spread not only throughout Little Rock, but the world as they learned the in-and-outs of careers, how to serve the Lord, and more about themselves. Below is 4 stories that show a glimpse of what a J-term might look like for students.
Harper Watson ( Internship ) communications director for the secretary of state
Harper Watson experienced a week as the Communications Director for the Secretary of State for her 2026 J-Term experience. Throughout this week she learned how to communicate and work with a team on a more professional level. Harper said, “My favorite part of this week was climbing to the top of the capital dome.” At the top of the dome, she was able to sign her name next to past governors. Harper is grateful for J-term because it allows students to gain new experiences and develop new interests.
Bella Bray ( Guatemala ) Mission Trip to Guatemala
Bella Bray got to experience her first ever international mission trip to Guatemala this J-term. She loved hanging out with not only her classmates but also with the families they helped. In Guatemala Bella and her team put on their very own VBS for all the kids. Bella said she will always remember how one of the little boys shared a piece of candy with her from the fallen pinata to show his gratitude for the team. Bella says “I am grateful for J-term because it allows you to be able to experience and learn things you can’t in a classroom.”
Caleb Coyle ( Passion )
Along with 40 other students Caleb Coyle experienced Passion 2026 for his J-term experience. For three days his group and 40,000 other young Christians discussed the theme of “Meet Us Here.” Along with the powerful messages, Caleb was able to feel the worship whole-heartedly. He said “All of my attention was on worshiping God and being present in the moment.” This J-term has refilled his cup and forever changed him. Caleb loves J-term because it gives students a way to ease into the second semester and gives the creative freedom of learning for a week. 
Hudson Shelley (Costa Rica) Mission Trip to Costa Rica
A group of 18 students and 3 chaperones went on a mission trip to Costa Rica. Sophomore Hudson Shelley had a unique experience hammering nails, painting walls, and getting to know the family who built a house. “God showed me that not everyone in the world lives the way we do and are as fortunate as us,” Hudson said. “There are people who struggle to survive and we need to help those people.” The family being served touched the hearts of many students, showing them that God’s goodness is for everyone and that he will always provide.
