Student Life Blogs Archive

Blogger: Lauren Simms, Communication
Date: 10/24/2011

Calling Role

I was sitting in class today thinking about roles. Roles that people play, roles they wish they played, or roles that they should've played. The first role that came to my mind was a teacher, probably due to the fact that I was listening to one. A silent montage played in my mind of every teacher I've had since kindergarten. I remember and can thoroughly distinguish good from bad and what lessons taught me more than others. For example, I remember my third grade year with Mrs. Grabowski. "How do you spell my last name?" was a bonus question on one of my spelling tests; it worked because I've never forgotten how to spell it. I got 100 percents on all my multiplication table quizzes and found pride in coloring each part to a banana split each time I learned a new set. But above all of the weird and random things I remember about my teachers over the years, I especially remember the ones who changed me.

I have Nancy Pace-Miller for two classes here at Evangel. Now, if you haven't had her as a Professor, you need to (even if the classes she teaches are no where on your course outline for your intended major). I love her class because of the knowledge she shares and the way she goes about teaching it. Today, she told us about a low point in her life and said this: "When pain happens, make sure you know where you're going to fall - or better yet - whose going to catch you. I fell into the arms of Jesus and it's a blanket of peace that I'll never be able to explain. Now, it doesn't mean that I escaped the pain of life, but God was there saying, 'I knew you could get through it.'" Chills ran up and down my body as she spoke and I realized at that moment that she would be one of the teachers that forever changed me.

I thought about roles that people should've played and thought of my daddy. He is a straight-forward business man. He knows what procedures to go by, the character of each employee, and how to run an effective and successful company. He takes the time to know everyone around him and abides by the rules. As I was sitting in my chair, full of attentive students, I envisioned him walking into the classroom to teach us the Holy Bible. He came in right on the hour and not a minute late. In his right hand, he carried his Bible full of highlighted passages and scribbled notes, along with his reading glasses. He faced the class with a smile that revealed his warmth and a greeting that oozed a genuine welcome. He closed his eyes and led in prayer. He prayed for the students' minds to be open to God's amazing Word and eternal truth and for wisdom. He shared the Bible, as open as he shares his heart, and changed every student's life as much as he changes mine every day.

I realize that we all have several roles, but I also realize that we have something bigger. We have a specific calling to be a missionary in the mission field of this world we live in ... a calling to change lives whether we are teachers or not.

Blogger: Landon Johnson, Biology (Pre-Veterinary Med)
Date: 10/5/2011

It's Homecoming! Woot, Woot!

G'day mates! I hope everyone is doing well. I am doing fantastic-Thank You. This semester has been crazy. Good thing I'm only taking Gen. Eds. (General Education Classes). For the Evangel University campus, this week is the busiest-It's Homecoming Week. For the rest of this week an weekend Evangel's campus is delightfully transformed into an Evangel Alumni Wonderland. Crusader banners all around, awesome cafeteria food, a jam-packed bookstore, and amazing chapel speakers. Evangel Alumni from all around the world return to their long treasured alma mater. If you are thinking about visiting Evangel, I encourage to schedule a tour ASAP. This is the perfect week to take a tour of Evangel's Campus.

Homecoming is an exciting week not only for EU Alumni but the students as well. The whole week is dedicated to making sure students are ready to show their school spirit---it's Spirit Week on campus, and today's theme "Wacky Tacky Decade Day." Yep, all over campus, freshmen or senior, boy and girl, faculty or staff member, everyone was wearing tacky clothes. Creativity is key, and one does not want to fall behind. There is a theme for every day of Homecoming week: Monday-Mustache Monday, Tuesday-Christmas in Oct, Wednesday-Wacky Tacky Decade Day, Thursday-Future Profession Day, and Friday-Good Ol' Maroon and White. Other events on the agenda include: EU's Got Talent Preliminaries, Extreme Volley Ball Tournament, Pie Eating Contests, Alumni Soccer Game, Crowing of the Homecoming King & Queen at the homecoming football game and more. This week is jam packed and there is a little something for everyone.

Okay, let's take a timeout. Here I am a senior in college. It won't be long until I'm an Evangel Alumnus because the last three years have certainly flown by. I was just talking to one of my closest friends, Ben Hurst. We have both been so busy with our studies we haven't even seen each other. It gets me thinking long-term-how in touch will I be with my friend after I graduate? Homecoming isn't just about visiting where you went to college; it's about reuniting with close friends as well. But hey, let's not get too comfortable, Evangel students, because next week we have midterms. It's been awesome you guys. Until next time I'll just enjoy my "Day in the life of an Evangel Student" because I only have three semesters left. Yikes! Remember, Hukuna Matata---I'm Out.

Blogger: Kara Ransom, Psychology
Date: 9/21/2011

How He Loves

The semester is well underway, and we are starting to "feel the pressure" of the first round of tests, papers and projects due. I have one presentation and one test down, and I only have one test and two papers to go! As you can see, this week has been a busy one.

Throughout the busyness of the semester, it's so nice to stop, relax and remember the goal I'm striving for. Last night, my husband and I attended the kick-off Student Lead Chapel of the semester. This first chapel was held on the lawn of Evangel's campus, which was a nice change of scenery after being indoors for classes all day. The night was cool and clear. I remember looking up and seeing a few stars, despite the campus lights, and realizing how blessed I am to worship a God who loves me. After listening to a good friend give her testimony, I was lovingly reminded that I don't have to be afraid of what the future holds because I serve a God who loves me.

At this stage in life, the future often seems so uncertain. Even though I am supposed to be striving for the goals before me, I often find it difficult to picture exactly what those goals look like. At times, a thick haze seems to be clouding my view of the future, and I often let fear creep into my uncertainty. Last night I was encouraged to remember one thing of which I can be certain: I serve a God who loves me. In Him I can find peace and encouragement because no matter what happens in the future, He will be there to guide me through it.

One thing God has continued to show me is that He always provides what we need. Over the last three years, I have worshiped in chapel, built friendships, grown in my faith, prayed together and studied in the library with fellow students and professors. Many of these people have been God's way of providing love, support and encouragement when I need it. As I looked around at the crowd of students worshiping God on the campus lawn last night, singing "How He Loves," I realized how blessed my time at Evangel has been. Truly, I do serve a God who loves me.

Blogger: Lauren Simms, Communication
Date: 9/19/2011

Taking Time

It's amazing how much different this semester is from the past two that I've had at Evangel. For one, I haven't gotten lost once; I've found it's quite liberating. Secondly, I've realized how attached I'm getting to this place that's beginning to be another home. It's amazing how you can go from seeing this place as foreign as China during freshman year to seeing it as a place where you become eager to get to. In addition, I have a family here. Okay, so not technically "blood-related" family but it's the same bond that holds us together. Sure, you come to college to get a degree and to fill your mind with as much knowledge as you can cram into your cerebellum, but you also come to make lifelong relationships. I've made an unbelievable amount of friends that I will have forever, the kind of friends that I am blessed to come in contact with in my lifetime.

I feel the need to include this little fact, just because I've heard this subject come up a lot ... girls who come onto this campus looking for a husband, be patient. I will give you a great tip: get lost in God. When you do that, He will lead you to the plan He has for your life, including the man you're supposed to marry (whether you meet him on campus or in the produce isle at Wal-Mart).

Lastly, I've learned to take time. I'm a commuter, so this, for me, is crucial. I've learned to take time to learn about the people around me and to branch out to people who I don't know. I've learned to take the time to enjoy being a student here at EU and all that it entails.

Blogger: Christina Jeter, English/Theater
Date: 9/14/2011

Hello Hurricane

Sometimes God blesses us with clear answers to our questions. God grants direct answers because He alone foresees the trials ahead. Humanity is fickle-minded. God knows this. He made us. However, God predicts our unpredictable behavior. He plans for it. God gives us clear answers so that when trials hit and chaos unfolds, we can look back on those answers and know we're on the right track.

I imagine myself standing in the midst of a terrible storm. Torrents of rain beat against my body. Hurricane winds whip against my face. I close my eyes, allowing the bitter cold to send shivers down my spine. Tears trail down my cheeks, unnoticed in such a heavy downpour. I'm wandering, somewhat aimlessly, with only a vague idea of my destination. One step, two steps, three steps. I stop. An overwhelming feeling of failure sinks in, and I feel like giving up right there, throwing in the towel, turning back.

Classes can sometime be overwhelming. Assignments pile on top of one another as each teacher emphasizes the importance his or her class above the rest. We stay up late doing homework or procrastinating.

This is the chaos of life. In such chaos, it becomes difficult to remember the task ahead. We focus on the storm. Each drop of rain, the unbearable winds, our feet sinking into the muddy field - these are tangible to us. Our destination is not tangible and thus the destination is forgotten.

God's answers are blessings. Clear answers shine through the darkness, through the chaos. Peter began sinking when he looked away from Christ. In such a storm, I feel like I am metaphorically sinking. My feet sink into the muddy field, I fall forward and mud oozes into my mouth, eyes and ears. A state of utter hopelessness ensues. At least, this is the case if my focus wanders from Christ. When we focus on the tasks, rather than the one who gave us those tasks, life becomes a frightening venture.

Friends are lifelines here at Evangel. Isolation is not a friend. I think this is why residence hall life plays such a vital role in college. A residence hall forces groups of students together. Whether roommates, suitemates, hall mates or the broad residence hall mates, these friendship can also bring hope in tough situations. The residence hall setup is helpful. Friends can get together to study or watch movies. Residence halls serve as a gateway to this whole idea of "doing life together." I thank God for my friends here at Evangel.

I know Evangel is where I'm supposed to be. I'm studying what God wants me to learn. I have no idea where I'll go or what I'll do after Evangel. However, I do know one thing. Where God sends, I will follow. I will praise God in the storm. I will lift my hands, for He is the one who calls, who sends. When trails come, I remember those God-given answers. Clear, direct answers.

Blogger: Kara Ransom, Psychology
Date: 9/2/2011

A Time of Transition

One full week of classes is now completed, and already I am loving this semester. All of my classes are so engaging, and the material I am learning is so interesting that I am energized my classes (which is a pleasant surprise). Speaking of surprises, I am also amazed how life brings transition when we don't even expect it. As I enter my senior year and last undergraduate semester, I am surprised this semester feels so different than the others.

Through junior year, I was one of the upperclassmen in all my classes (even though most of my classmates were too, it still felt great). I expected to feel the same my senior year, yet being in graduate classes in addition to undergrad has made me realize a few things. I'm realizing that life beyond school will be much different than the life I've enjoyed as a student. As I begin to look for a job, prepare for graduation and prepare to enter graduate school full force in January, I face new, exciting and different challenges and responsibilities that I've never before experienced.

Additionally, through interaction with graduate students, many of them older than I am, I realize how young I really am. In the undergraduate world, I am one of those old students I looked to as a freshmen and thought, "It will take so long for me to get there." Yet, here I am; time has flown by. It's amazing how relative feelings of maturity and age can be.

Despite these slight pangs of transition, I am so excited for what the future holds. One of the things I am most thankful for is that my professors are so encouraging and available. With every concern, doubt or fear I have, I know I can go to them for information, guidance and prayers. What more could a student in transition ask for?

Blogger: Landon Johnson, Biology (Pre-Veterinary Med)
Date: 9/2/2011

Here We Go

Howdy Peeps! Evangel University has been in school for a whole week. The first day of classes is history (last week), and it is time to get in gear and prepare for the new 2011 fall semester. But before we get to this school, let us do a quick recap because I still have to tell you all about my Marine Biology Trip to the Florida Keys and yesterday was my BIRTHDAY! For those that do not know, Evangel University offers Marine Biology as an elective Science class. Every two years, the Marine Biology class takes a trip to the Florida Keys. Students are able to get scuba certified the Fall and Spring semesters prior to the summer keys trip.

It was a 27-hour bus ride down to the keys. It wasn't the most enjoyable bus ride, but there was definitely a lot of bonding time available, getting to know each other and of course watching "Finding Nemo" as we prepared for the native wildlife we would soon observe at the coral reef. Being at the Florida Keys for a week and a half, we spent a large amount of time snorkeling on the shores and in the sea, journaling about the day's events, and eating. The class also spent a couple of days scuba diving. Observing the coral reef and wildlife we had studied all semester was definitely the highlight of my trip to Florida. I can remember it just like it was yesterday. The waves were crashing against the boat, an awesome sea breeze blowing across my face. Everyone was suited up in full scuba gear. It reminds of the time I received my drivers permit, and my mother let me drive for the very first time. It was a surreal moment, a time for which I had been studying and training for months, and here I am in the middle of the experience. With my left hand I held my weight belt, and with my right hand I held my scuba mask and took a giant leap into the beautiful clear water. Instantly I felt the seventy degree water touch my skin, remembering my training I put in my breathing apparatus (because I could not breath) and began looking around-UNDER WATER. Instantly, I saw the beautiful vibrant colors that this underwater world had to offer, pure beauty that no mind can fathom without seeing it firsthand.

This past summer I took the trip of my life and I encourage you to embark on one as well. It does not have to be a trip to the stunning water of the Florida Keys, just to a place where you can see the beautiful out-of-the-ordinary work of God. This year is probably the most bizarre for me. It's my senior year-so surreal. But I look forward to sharing my experiences with you this fall semester. Well, Happy Birthday to me, and I hope you all are ready for an exciting year.

Blogger: Lauren Simms, Communication & Social Science
Date: 8/26/2011

An Imprinting Reflection

Well, for most of the Evangel students, yesterday marked the first day of classes (mine included). Teachers introduced themselves, told us what we could expect out of their classes, and then went over the syllabi. Most of them started the class with a prayer that eased nerves and filled the room with calmness. As I was walking from class to class yesterday, I found it amazing how much you can change over the course of a year. In the hallway, there was a girl who got off the elevator looking flustered, she made eye contact with me and gave a half-laugh, "I sure hope I'm going in the right direction." "Are you a freshman?" I said before I realized the fact that it could be an insult or she could be a transfer student (not to mention older than me). "Yes," she spoke with a smile. I went on to ask her what class she had and told her that she was going in the right direction. After that, she looked at me gratefully and said, "Oh, thank you for your help!" I looked at her, smiled, and in her eyes, saw myself last year. It was the fear of being completely lost in a sea of people that knew exactly where they were going and the fear of walking in late to a full and attentive classroom. It was the fear of the unknown mixed in with the peace that everything was going to be okay because God was right there with me.

I thought about what directions and paths we have the choice of taking, no matter if we attend a Christian University or not. We have the choice of taking advantage of the uplifting atmosphere and the choice of building relationships with our Professors and of going to them for help when we need it. We have the choice to look forward to Chapel and anticipate God meeting us there. We have the choice to meet friends that we will have for a lifetime and the choice to be thankful for an education. I had a good day yesterday, but later found myself complaining about the tests and homework that come with a eighteen-hour semester. My mind went back to what my mom had told me that morning as I was on my way to school, "You will get out of College what you put into it." She is right and because of it, I vow that I will have a great semester. I vow that I will enjoy my days at Evangel and that I will thank God for giving me an opportunity to go to a wonderful Christian University.

I vow that I will forever keep the memory of my reflection as a freshman and the person I've become since then.

Blogger: Kara Ransom, Psychology
Date: 8/9/2011

Summer Busyness

I think the label "Summer Break" is quite misleading. For many students, summer is a time to work long hours, get ahead by taking summer classes and travel regularly. Based on these pastimes, I'm not quite sure but summer merely seems to be a break from cold weather, not from the crazy chaos and busyness of the academic year. It should be renamed "Summer Busyness."

Despite the busyness of everyday life, especially life in college, I wouldn't trade my education for anything. Evangel has impacted not only my intellectual development but my emotional and spiritual growth as well. As I approach the end of summer and the beginning of a new semester, I feel so many things. I feel excited that I am about to start my last undergraduate semester and that my friends will be back in Springfield soon. I feel a little apprehensive to start my most intense class load of my college career. But I also feel peace, a peace in knowing that my professors, my friends, and my Savior will be taking this semester's journey with me. I am not alone.

The relationships I have formed with faculty, staff and students during my time at Evangel are invaluable. God has placed these people in my life to encourage me, to hold me to a high standard and to be my friends. For this reason, I can take a deep breath and know that this semester could be the best one yet.

Blogger: Jesse Tucker, English Education
Date: 8/8/2011

My 2-week Summer

While Landon's summer is coming to a halt, mine is JUST starting! Since January, I have been in classes (spring semester and summer classes), but now I'm finally done! I finished my finals last week and move back into the dorms on the 15th to start EU Launch training. And yes, this left me with a whopping 2-week summer break. I'm trying to take advantage of the time I have off to spend time with friends-I've had friends over to my apartment every night for the past 5 days or so (Netflix is really coming in handy).

I've also tried to be somewhat productive by cleaning up my apartment, starting to pack, and helping to paint at my church. I'm really glad I stayed in Springfield this summer, because I've been able to strengthen some of my Evangel and church friendships and also meet others that I otherwise would not have. I'm looking forward to moving back and being able to walk down the hall to see most of my friends! I hope you enjoy the remainder of your summer!

Blogger: Lauren Simms, Communication & Social Science
Date: 8/8/2011

Pencils and Promises

I'm writing this with complete anguish that it is now officially August. When I hear August, I suddenly get disturbing images of pink erasers, no. 2 pencils, and overpriced Five-Star notebooks. I have come to the conclusion that Wal-Mart employees smile more in that month than any other. For example they say, "Hi welcome to Wal-Mart, school supply lists are located right behind me! Have a GREAT day!!!" In my head, I silently think, "Why do they have to be so chipper? And why, might I ask, do they have to state the totally obvious? It's not like anyone in God's wonderful kingdom doesn't know school is coming up quicker than Santa Claus can make it down a chimney." Yes, I'm being a "Debbie Downer." Some might even go far enough to call me a "Negative Nancy." I'm sorry. I will admit, though, that the day before school starts, the excited energy sores proudly through my veins. I even begin to become like one of the chipper greeters at Wal-Mart.

If you're reading this and you're entering Evangel as a freshman this year, stop worrying...I was in your shoes last year. I was so nervous my first day I didn't think I could put one foot in front of the other. Everyone in college has to deal with the first-day freshman nerves, and all the returning students will be more than willing to help you. Especially when you're trying to find Z101 (Zimmerman 101) in Trask Hall (Yes, it's possible to look for a room in the wrong building and yes, I did it). I remember the first time I knew I was going to be just fine; it was the very first class I had on my very first day at Evangel. My professor welcomed us and then asked us to bow our heads as he prayed. That single lone prayer calmed every nerve and cell in my body and I felt God's hand on my back. Now, here I am giving you advice! I'm not going to lecture you or give you multiple lessons on "How to get through Evangel 101," but I am going to tell you to study; study hard. I am going to tell you to trust God; trust him with every part of you. Lastly, I am going to tell you to enjoy every memory. Life goes faster than I could ever explain.

August holds something else that I feel makes up for the fact that homework and tests may be given before September comes; it holds the promise for goals. You can have a goal to be on the Dean's List or a goal to make it a whole semester without going home. Your goal just might be to no longer be a freshman. Whatever your goal is this year within or outside of Evangel, go after it and watch the amazing person that blossoms inside of you.

Now that this blog is finished, I feel the need to remind you that I've taken a new name for myself: "Positive Polly."

Blogger: Landon Johnson, Biology (Pre-Veterinary Med)
Date: 7/29/2011

Tuxedos and Fish

Wow! My summer is slowly coming to a screeching halt. I tell you what, these last couples of months have been the greatest and probably the most memorable of my life. It started out with a wonderful trip to the Florida Keys with my Marine Biology class. It was amazing, and I can't wait to tell you more about it in my next blog. Though I took two semesters of Physics this summer, it is turning out to end on a good note. I've tried lobster, reconnected with friends, and flew by myself.

Wait!!! No one told you, but wedding bells are in the air. That is because in addition to scuba diving and taking summer classes, I have watched three of my friends get married, two of which I met at Evangel University. My triplet brother, past RA (Resident Assistant), and my best friend all were wed in these past couple of months. Here comes the best part: they all met at Evangel University. Those guys sure know how to pick'em.

It doesn't matter if you are at school, church, or on summer break, one should make it their goal to learn something new everyday. As a current or future college student, that is an important rule one should follow and take very seriously.

I, ladies and gentlemen, learned how to water ski this summer. Yes, I said water ski. While I was in Maine for a wedding (Congrats Brian & Chelsea) I was crazy enough to get behind the speed boat of a crazy Mainer, ride a huge tube, and water ski. It was a painstaking process, but with sore and bruised limbs I finally "Mastered" the technique. I also learned how to slalom which is the process of dropping one ski while in movement and skiing with the other one. I had the time of my life and met some amazing Men and Women of Christ.

Well, there are about two weeks left until the new freshmen and transfer students begin moving into their new home. Maybe it is your first time away from home, first dormitory, or college experience. I encourage you to grab the bull by the horns and run. Maybe you still don't know where you're going to school. That is fine-no rush-but Evangel is waiting for you. Meet some people! Ask anyone, building relationships is the best part about Evangel's campus. I look forward to meeting each and every one of you-not joking. The summer is ending and I can't wait to see what the Evangel future holds. Bon Voyage and hakuna matata!!! -Lando Out-Ski!!!

Blogger: Kara Ransom, Psychology
Date: 7/14/2011

Unlimited Possibilities

This is such an amazing time of life. As a college student just starting out, I greatly value the many options that await me. I love hearing about all the neat things that my fellow class mates are planning to do with their lives.

Just this morning my fellow student workers and I were discussing our plans for the future. The discussion included plans of marriage, engagement, medical school, law school and the Coast Guard Reserve. In the midst of this excited exchange of dreams and plans, I realized what an amazing point in time this is for us-early 20s with our whole lives ahead. Anything could happen.

I have learned in my short life that life often includes roadblocks and detours which often deter us from reaching our original destinations, at least at the time expected. However, I've also learned that God doesn't leave us to wander through these unexpected turns in life. If we accept His guidance, He will guide us through those rough spots, and lead us to His planned destination in His timing.

It's so great to know that I am surrounded by people who will encourage me and help me achieve my goals in life. I strongly believe that God uses people in our lives to guide us toward His purpose for us. At Evangel, people have one common denominator-Jesus. This connection between brothers and sisters in Christ of all different walks of life is the glue that holds Evangel together and makes the whole college experience invaluable.

Blogger: Jesse Tucker, English Education
Date: 7/7/2011

Go Team Twitter!

I decided to take an unexpected two weeks off from work and school and venture home to Ohio. I'm grateful that my job at EU is flexible, allowing me to take off a large amount of time. It's always refreshing to see family and friends, relax, eat good food, and sleep in! It was also nice being home for the 4th of July celebrations!

While home, I volunteered as a "support staff" member for the second time at a camp where I attended for two years in high school. This year the team names were Internet-related, and I was placed on Team Twitter. It's tough cheering and actively participating in everything including "Acid Rain" where you have to slide under a plank into a mud puddle, then try to grab a ball from a bucket when a fire hose two feet away is pounding into your face. By the end of the week, my voice was just about gone.

Every night we had an amazing service with the challenging guest speaker Cornell Jordan. His catch phrase being, "Put that on yo Facebook!" If you've been to a church camp, you've probably wished the camp experience could last forever because of the fun you're having. Fortunately, I've found that Evangel has a similar attributes-worship services, fellowship, late night discussions, and activities (such as movies on the lawn, Harvest Fest, paint-filled balloon wars, Zombified, and more).

I'm excited for the semester to start up this August because I know of at least five friends from camp who will be attending Evangel, and I convinced a few more to apply. I'd encourage you to join the crowd if you haven't already.

Blogger: Lauren Simms, Communication
Date: 6/29/2011

An Incredible Experience

Yesterday marked one of the best experiences of my entire life. I met Ryan Seacrest. That four-word sentence would be enough to allow me to end this blog, and it could be one of the best blogs I've ever written, but I've decided to go further on details. Along with being a full-time student, working in the Admissions Office at Evangel, and babysitting for eight different families, I am also the intern for a Christian radio station (99HitFM) here in Springfield. As a Communications major, we are required to have an internship, but I never thought for one second that I would have the opportunity to have an internship like this one; it's a huge blessing. I co-host the morning show, update the station's Twitter and Facebook, and do whatever else needs to be done. Occasionally, I even make coffee.

Yesterday I was able to do a live broadcast at the American Idol Auditions in St. Louis, Missouri. When I got there, I was given a FOX Media Pass along with the other TV/Radio stations there; trust me, that sticker badge made me feel both important and official. I had on headphones (in which I could hear what was going on at the morning show), carried a Comrex (which allowed me to be able to hear, talk, and connect to the morning show), and held a microphone (to interview all the "uniquely dressed" people you see on TV). With all that, I set off to interview a few of the 10,000 people that were packed in between the two barriers that led almost to the Arch.

After six interviews, I had seen a girl dressed in a poofy black and red tutu and had had one guy completely yank the microphone out of my hand to lead the crowd in song. I then headed over to the press conference with the rest of the media staff to meet Ryan Seacrest. There were probably ten to fifteen people that were a part of the media, myself included. We, for the most part, had free reign in asking questions (except anything involving the judges). Questions like, "What do you expect this season?" and "What exactly are you looking for?" started being asked, so I asked something different. "Ryan, do you ever find time to sleep?" I asked before I could realize what came out of my mouth or the fact that it could be taken as an insult. "Do I look like I haven't gotten any sleep?" He replied with a lively smirk on his face. Everyone laughed and the tense air left the small crowd; afterwards, he posed with me for a picture (in which I am going to blow up to an 8x11 and treasure it forever). When I got home, I tweeted that picture on the 99HitFM Twitter and come to find out, Ryan's Radio page in the United Kingdom re-tweeted it. Another picture of Ryan and I also made the KPLR11 News website in St. Louis.

Above the fact that I met, interviewed, hugged, and talked to Ryan Seacrest, I saw 10,000 people going after their dreams. One guy told me, "Dreams are made for going after, if you don't follow your dream then why have one?" So all of you Evangel staff members, students, prospective students, or anyone else reading this, if you have a dream, go after it with everything inside of you.

I just ask one small thing.please don't do it in a red and black tutu.

Blogger: Kara Ransom, Psychology
Date: 6/15/2011

Sizzling Summer

I don't know about yours, but my summer is sizzling by so quickly. I must say that I am thoroughly enjoying the warm weather and sunshine, but summer is like the weekend-slow to arrive and quick to leave.

This summer is pretty packed with work and summer classes, but I am able to relax sometimes. Thankfully, I am able to work full-time on campus over the summer, so working around my classes has been stress-free.

The first summer session at Evangel has just ended, so I can cross two classes off my summer list. One of the classes I took last session was Parenting. Though many students do not see the need to take such a class at this point in life, I am so glad that I did. That class was extremely eye-opening.

As a psychology major, I was familiar with the stages of children's cognitive, socioemotional, and physical development, but in this class, I was able to see how those developmental stages influence the parent-child relationship. Because my husband and I were able to take this course together, I feel that we are much more prepared for parenting our future children than we would have been without this training.

Being able to take these summer courses is such a blessing. Even though they keep my summer busy, the benefits are enormous. The most important is that I will be able to graduate from my undergraduate program in seven semesters instead of eight, giving me the opportunity to apply to Evangel's accelerated master's program. Granted, I'm taking twelve credits this summer to do so, but hey, what would I be doing otherwise?

Because of the many classes Evangel offers during the summer, I have also been able to take two classes for my biblical studies minor-Christianity at Work and Pentecostal Foundations. Both of these classes are online/independent study which allows me to work during the day and do assignments in the evenings and weekends. The freedom these classes offer is what has made my summer objectives possible.

Last, but not least, I will be taking my first graduate class in July-Marriage and Family Therapy. It is a three weekend module course that will be intense, but brief. I will admit that I am a bit nervous, but I am confident that my undergraduate program has prepared me to take this next step in my education.

I'm so thankful for how far I've come in the last three years. My Evangel experience has fostered intellectual, emotional, relational and spiritual growth that is priceless; I wouldn't trade it for anything in this world.

Blogger: Jesse Tucker, English Education
Date: 6/10/2011

The Big Decision

Hey, guys! If you look up, my major is listed. Looking at it, you would think that means I'm an expert blog writer, right? Well, to let you in on a secret, the closest I've come to blogging would be Facebook status updates. So, I'll give this a go.

My name's Jesse, and with the completion at my second year at Evangel, I'm now a junior. After my freshman year, I went home to Ohio for the summer, but this time I decided to stay in Springfield for a few reasons: 1) having a secure job in the Admissions office, 2) taking summer classes, and 3) hanging out with other EU friends. This is the fourth week since Finals week, and other than the three things listed, the highlights of my summer have been taking a trip to Joplin to help with the tornado catastrophe, going to Springfield's Art Walk, and watching Kung Fu Panda 2 and nightly episodes of Monk with my roommate.

What will you do with your free time this summer? In High School I would spend a lot of time catching up on my favorite TV shows, getting super-involved with my youth group, and trying to spend time with friends (while attempting to use as little gas money as possible).

Another thing I did was sort through the piles and piles of college information that I had been sent over the years-from state, private, and Christian colleges in Ohio and abroad. I know narrowing your search, even to >10, can be a hard task for indecisive people such as myself. Do you find this is a problem for you? Or maybe you're having trouble choosing a major? I was in the same situation.

I knew my core goal was to simply make an impact and let people (particularly students) know they are accepted and loved. I was seriously considering Christian Counseling or Youth Ministry, for these were the most tangible jobs I could think of which would directly impact people's lives. Thinking over this belief, I started to realize the impact I could make in a "real-world" setting other than the church, meaning jobs such as being a nurse, businessman, director, lawyer, chemist, ect. I then started looking into Education, but I wasn't positive what I wanted to do.

This is one of the reasons I chose a "liberal arts" university like Evangel. They offered any major I could have been considering, and I knew Evangel was committed to a strong Christian faith. I knew that Evangel in particular would have the atmosphere I had been searching for-and two years later, I still hold this view. Hopefully you can start figuring out what your goals in life are and start making your way towards achieving those goals at Evangel this fall.