The transition from majoring in youth ministry to studying computer science may be an odd one, but for Ben Crill it worked out perfectly. A 2003 graduate of Huntington University, Crill first came to the University to pursue a career in youth ministry. But during his time at Huntington, he explored other academic areas and found his niche in the Computer Science Department.

“I enjoyed the people and the atmosphere so much that even after I decided to change majors, I stayed put,” says Crill, a native of Westerville, Ohio.

Crill currently puts his computer science training to good use as the network administrator and special projects director for AgReliant Genetics in Westfield, Ind.

“I am responsible for the daily operations of our information infrastructure, including monitoring network security, making sure computer and networking equipment is functioning properly, and making sure our remote users have reliable access to network resources,” Crill says.

Crill also works on special projects such as updating a database used by his company’s sales force so they can view their orders and create estimates for new orders. But technological proficiency wasn’t all that Crill learned at Huntington. He gained skills that will help him adjust to whatever the future holds.

“My Huntington education gave me a desire to succeed and perform to my best, not solely for my own achievement, but because God has blessed me with specific talents,” Crill says. “It also helped me in keeping perspective in the workplace, knowing that there is something greater than what I do from 8-5 Monday through Friday.”

For Crill, integrating his faith into his workplace is made easier by his fellow employees.

“I have been fortunate to work in a company where most of the workers are Christian,” Crill says. “My direct boss in particular is very strong in his faith. It helps when you have a boss that appreciates the effort I put forth because of my faith and is willing to do everything he can to help me do my job while holding strong to my beliefs.”

The close-knit environment Crill has found at his workplace is similar to the kind of learning environment at a smaller institution like Huntington. “One advantage is the ability to work effectively in a group environment when you know the people you are working with better,” Crill says about Huntington’s smaller class sizes. “In addition, the ability to easily meet and speak with professors when struggling with a particular topic is a major advantage.”

Crill also had the advantage of being present when HU’s new Science Hall was built, and he cites it as one of his favorite memories. Formerly located in the Loew-Brenn basement, the computer science research lab was moved into the Science Hall. “We had a much larger updated lab to work in,” Crill remembers. “I, along with every other computer science major, was thrilled.”

For students interested in computer science at Huntington, Crill encourages them to soak up as much knowledge as possible.

“Learn as much as you can about the field of computers and the business world,” Crill advises. “Also, don’t be satisfied with knowing just the information presented in a lecture. Learn more about something that piqued your interest, or learn as much as you can about something that wasn’t covered but that you find interesting.”