Year at a Glance

Vanguards earn 8 transferrable Wheaton College credits by participating in faculty-led multi-disciplinary seminars, engaging with the community, and digging into core spiritual disciplines.

Vanguards take three distinct trips:

1. Wilderness: 6-day Backpacking Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
2. Cross Cultural: 14-day Immersion Trip, choose between two ministry partnerships (one domestic, one international)
3. Domestic, Track Specific: 6-day trip that is specific to the topics and focus of each track (Journeys, Equestrian, Adventure Programing)

Vanguards follow a guided, step-by-step vocational discernment process. The conversation begins in September, continues through the year, and culminates with the final seminar in April that asks the question, "What is my purpose in light of the Great Commission?"

Vanguards already earn 8 college credits as a part of their year at HoneyRock.

If Vanguards choose to stay for "Wheaton in the Northwoods" (WIN), a May term offered by Wheaton College, they can earn up to 8 additional credits at a discounted summer rate. WIN students take one 4-credit class over the course of two weeks where they build close relationships with fellow classmates and with Wheaton College faculty members. Classes range from Intro to Philosophy to Modern Global Literature, from Statistics to Wood Fired Ceramics.

If a Vanguard completes WIN, they will walk away from their Vanguard year with 12 transferrable college credits.

After completing the 9-month Vanguard program, Vanguards have the option of working alongside HoneyRock summer staff in a variety of roles. This is an incredible opportunity to put their learning into action through ministry leadership positions. Work areas include cabin leader, grounds crew, facility maintenance, kitchen, housekeeping, activity area leader, or in ministry support roles. Learning to build community, teach Bible studies, resolve conflict and lead their peers will prepare Vanguards for college and career.

If a Vanguard wants to stay for the summer, they begin the application process in January. Income earned from this summer role can be used to reduce the overall cost of Vanguard by paying down the final tuition and program payment.