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Taking Advantage of a Christian Education
If it wasn't for Focus on the Family's James Dobson, I probably would've attended a state school. But it was his radio special on the importance of Christian higher education that really resonated with my mother one particular Sunday night--so much so, that it scared me a little. When she walked into my bedroom, sat on the foot of my bed and began her heartfelt plea for me to consider attending a Christian university, I wasn't exactly sure what all the fuss was about. I probably said something in response like, "Sure, OK, whatever, Mom." Truth be told, I just wanted to get back to reading my book.
Now, more than a decade after graduating from North Central University in Minneapolis, I finally understand the wisdom behind my mom's pleas, not to mention the unique benefits of faith-based higher education--and there are many.
Apparently, the secret's out, too, as enrollment in Christian universities has increased 70.6 percent since 1990 at the 102 evangelical schools belonging to the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). With the number of students choosing Christian education on the rise, there has to be something that sets these schools apart, even if the tuition is higher.
WHERE THERE IS FAITH
Sure, there can be pros and cons of attending a school with only those who believe the same way you do. Some would fear getting trapped in the Christian "bubble," which is a reality that Christian college students easily can avoid by escaping campus from time to time. For me, that was as easy as taking a walk around my neighborhood--a convenient way to get in touch with reality when you go to school in the inner city. For those who attend a school in the suburbs, there are always outreach opportunities that'll provide fresh perspectives.
Ultimately, the experience of going to school with those who share the same faith can be a positive one. There were countless times in Bible classes when I was challenged in my thinking, simply by hearing a different point of view. After all, while you may share the same beliefs on the most important issues, people's different church backgrounds, unique cultures and varied life experiences certainly cause classroom discussions to be anything but boring.
Another perk that comes with most Christian colleges is the opportunity to go to chapel services, something I honestly wish I'd valued more while I was there. In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it was great to be able to have a time specifically allotted for worship and biblical teaching. Let's just say you probably won't have that daily luxury in your post-college years.
BIGGER ISN'T ALWAYS BETTER
Another distinct advantage I found in attending a Christian college is the smaller class size. When you're not in a lecture hall with 3,000 other students, there's more opportunity for class discussion and for your professors and academic advisors actually to know your name. I found this factor most advantageous when it cane to my journalism studies.
In a larger school, I wouldn't have had as many opportunities to practice my craft by working on the college newspaper and having my own radio show. Instead, I would've been competing with countless other students for those same privileges. While a little healthy competition is often a good thing, it's practical experience that really matters in the end--where your resume is concerned.
Smaller schools also allow for more of a community atmosphere. Dorm floor activities and small groups kept my social schedule packed with things to do (besides studying). Plus, it's nice when you're just starting college to see a few familiar faces every once in a while, which smaller campuses definitely make possible.
OK, SO I'M INTERESTED, NOW WHAT?
If this is all sounding good to you, you're probably wondering how to take the next step--or how expensive this is going to be. Well, on the monetary front, there's hope. There's no doubt that it's more expensive, in most cases, to attend a Christian college; but there are also plenty of opportunities through financial aid, part-time jobs and scholarships to make your educational dreams a reality. At least there is if you do a little advanced research (and keep up those grades).
If you're thinking about college, it's best to start visiting potential schools and filling out applications sooner rather than later. There's a reason why your mom told you the early bird always gets the worm. The adage certainly applies here as you'll most likely need reference letters and copies of your high-school transcript and financial aid forms in order to get all the fun started.
While this may seem overwhelming now, it'll certainly pay off in the long run. I still look back at my college years with fondness whenever I think about the friendships, chapel services and, yes, even the papers, tests and chilly Minneapolis weather. When you start the great adventure that is college life, you'll probably feel the same way and find that it goes by far too quickly.
Now, more than a decade after graduating from North Central University in Minneapolis, I finally understand the wisdom behind my mom's pleas, not to mention the unique benefits of faith-based higher education--and there are many.
Apparently, the secret's out, too, as enrollment in Christian universities has increased 70.6 percent since 1990 at the 102 evangelical schools belonging to the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). With the number of students choosing Christian education on the rise, there has to be something that sets these schools apart, even if the tuition is higher.
WHERE THERE IS FAITH
Sure, there can be pros and cons of attending a school with only those who believe the same way you do. Some would fear getting trapped in the Christian "bubble," which is a reality that Christian college students easily can avoid by escaping campus from time to time. For me, that was as easy as taking a walk around my neighborhood--a convenient way to get in touch with reality when you go to school in the inner city. For those who attend a school in the suburbs, there are always outreach opportunities that'll provide fresh perspectives.
Ultimately, the experience of going to school with those who share the same faith can be a positive one. There were countless times in Bible classes when I was challenged in my thinking, simply by hearing a different point of view. After all, while you may share the same beliefs on the most important issues, people's different church backgrounds, unique cultures and varied life experiences certainly cause classroom discussions to be anything but boring.
Another perk that comes with most Christian colleges is the opportunity to go to chapel services, something I honestly wish I'd valued more while I was there. In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it was great to be able to have a time specifically allotted for worship and biblical teaching. Let's just say you probably won't have that daily luxury in your post-college years.
BIGGER ISN'T ALWAYS BETTER
Another distinct advantage I found in attending a Christian college is the smaller class size. When you're not in a lecture hall with 3,000 other students, there's more opportunity for class discussion and for your professors and academic advisors actually to know your name. I found this factor most advantageous when it cane to my journalism studies.
In a larger school, I wouldn't have had as many opportunities to practice my craft by working on the college newspaper and having my own radio show. Instead, I would've been competing with countless other students for those same privileges. While a little healthy competition is often a good thing, it's practical experience that really matters in the end--where your resume is concerned.
Smaller schools also allow for more of a community atmosphere. Dorm floor activities and small groups kept my social schedule packed with things to do (besides studying). Plus, it's nice when you're just starting college to see a few familiar faces every once in a while, which smaller campuses definitely make possible.
OK, SO I'M INTERESTED, NOW WHAT?
If this is all sounding good to you, you're probably wondering how to take the next step--or how expensive this is going to be. Well, on the monetary front, there's hope. There's no doubt that it's more expensive, in most cases, to attend a Christian college; but there are also plenty of opportunities through financial aid, part-time jobs and scholarships to make your educational dreams a reality. At least there is if you do a little advanced research (and keep up those grades).
If you're thinking about college, it's best to start visiting potential schools and filling out applications sooner rather than later. There's a reason why your mom told you the early bird always gets the worm. The adage certainly applies here as you'll most likely need reference letters and copies of your high-school transcript and financial aid forms in order to get all the fun started.
While this may seem overwhelming now, it'll certainly pay off in the long run. I still look back at my college years with fondness whenever I think about the friendships, chapel services and, yes, even the papers, tests and chilly Minneapolis weather. When you start the great adventure that is college life, you'll probably feel the same way and find that it goes by far too quickly.
