Alumni Focus - Caleb Raasch ('16)

Caleb Raasch (’16) received his bachelor’s degree from Martin Luther College and will soon graduate with his Masters of Divinity from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. As Caleb reflects back on his years at SCLA and what led him to pursue the public ministry, he’s got some great advice for high school students.

What are some of your favorite memories from your time at St. Croix?

Most of my favorite memories are spending time with friends. Some of the classes were really enjoyable as well (calculus, Latin, and physics, to name a few).

Were there any teachers or staff who had a big impact on you?

The first three that come to mind are Pastor Sutton, Mr. Harley, and Miss Fredrich.

What lessons—academic or personal—did you carry with you after graduation?

The one of the greatest lessons I started to learn at St. Croix and continued to learn after graduation was to not care too much about what people think of me. It’s freeing and makes it easier for me to get things done.

Were you involved in any extracurriculars or activities that helped shape who you are today?

Cross country and track both started me on the path of taking better care of my body.

What path did you take after graduating?

I went to Martin Luther College and started the path to become a pastor.

Can you tell us about a challenge you faced after high school and how your values or education helped you get through it?

It’s nothing grandiose or specific, but some of the interpersonal communication skills I was taught were very helpful in navigating challenging situations after high school.

What advice would you give to your high school self or to current students?

1.      Read your Bible. I’m going to tell you to do your homework eventually, but there’s a reason this comes first. If you aren’t having personal devotions on a regular basis, then start. If you were doing so but fell off the wagon, there’s no better time to restart. You don’t need to read it cover to cover either. Pick somewhere that is meaningful to you (maybe your confirmation verse) and read that. Later, read the whole chapter. If you like that section, read it again. If you don’t know what to read, go ask a campus pastor. I guarantee, few things will make him happier than a student going into his office and asking him, “What should I read from the Bible?” or “What’s a good devotional schedule?” God blesses you through His Word; seek Him there.

2.      Do your homework, but goodness gracious, don’t overdo it. Make it a priority and apply yourself in it, but don’t let it dominate your life. Make time to do things that you love and pursue your hobbies.

3.      Dating in high school is overrated.

4.      I know I mentioned this earlier, but it’s worth repeating: stop caring so much about what your classmates think of you. Don’t be a jerk, but know that it’s okay to be weird.

How did your experiences at St. Croix influence the kind of work you wanted to do in adulthood?

Mr. Gibson and Pastor Sutton introduced me to Latin, which made me want to study languages. Pastor Sutton also inspired me to think about serving as a pastor.

Are there values or habits from your school years that you find yourself applying in your professional or personal life today?

I always used the little SCLHS planner that we were given at the beginning of the year. It was immensely helpful in keeping track of homework and everything else. I used it all the time and it was a great habit. Unfortunately, I say “was” because for a number of reasons I am no longer using a planner and I hope to retake that habit soon and make it a part of my personal life again.

Please keep Caleb in your prayers as he awaits his first call to begin his public ministry!