Updated 11:50 a.m. EDT, 9 Oct 2026
My fellow Highlanders,
As you approach the beginning of your career, it is an unsettling time, particularly with the explosion of AI as a disruptor in the marketplace. Many of you are used to being one of the smartest people in the room (hey, you picked Houghton, right?). Here’s the bad news – that isn’t going to be enough. Therefore, I would encourage you to do two things.
First, show up every day with the commitment to outwork everyone else in everything you do. Not only is this scriptural (maximizing the talents God has given you), but it will also distinguish yourself in the eyes of not only your current employer, but everyone you encounter in your daily life. From a networking perspective, it is a very small world (as a former Alumni Board member, a shameless plug – utilize your Houghton network; we’re here to help you!).
Second, never forget that God is only as small as we make him. Pray without ceasing. Seek his will. When I’m anticipating a particularly difficult day at work, I usually end my commute with Elevation Worship’s song “Same God”. It is a real comfort to me that in the face of challenges, the God of Jacob, Moses, and Mary is watching over me with no less love or concern than he had for them.
Tim Deckert, Class of ‘95
