Student Life Blogs

Blogger: Ian Richardson, English
Date: 2/10/2012

Allow me to Introduce myself

Hi there! My name is Ian Richardson. I'm a second-semester freshman from the tiny town of Afton, Iowa. Some of my hobbies are running, playing piano, reading, writing and watching movies.

One semester into my college career, I've learned a lot of important things, like how to survive with a roommate, which foods to eat in the cafeteria, and how not to get lost driving to church. I have to admit, I've had to make a few adjustments. This college campus has over twice the population of my hometown, and I'm still getting used to the fact that Springfield has, well, stoplights.

All of these changes have come in stride, however, and I am finding that this place really feels like home.

Why exactly did I choose to attend Evangel? Well, my dream has always been to write for a career. As I progressed through high school and started looking at colleges, I decided that I wanted to attend a university where I wouldn't just learn the skills I needed to make money, but where I would also learn how to incorporate my faith into my career. My parents suggested I check out Evangel, so I looked it up online. I was amazed by all the choices they offered. Evangel had all of the majors I was interested in, plus plenty of hands-on opportunities like a TV station, student-directed films, a newspaper, and the list went on. Everything seemed right up my alley. I decided then that Evangel was where I wanted to go.

When I visited campus the fall of my senior year, it was like putting the cherry on top of an ice cream sundae. It is one thing to look at Evangel on the internet, but to actually be here and feel the welcoming atmosphere cemented that this was where I was supposed to be.

So, fast forward a year and a half. Here I am, studying English and film, working a desk job at the TV station, contributing articles to the newspaper, and blogging on the university web site. But I'm finding Evangel to be much more than just a university. It is a fantastic environment for God to mold you into what He wants you to be for the rest of your life, and I am excited to see what He has in store.

Blogger: Christina Jeter, English/Theater
Date: 2/5/2012

Safe? Who Said Anything About Safe?

Classes are in full swing. Schedules are quickly filled. Time seems to flee like the white rabbit in Alice in Wonderland screaming, "I'm late for an important date!" The homework pile grows and classes seem overwhelming. However, I find it helpful in the midst of a busy schedule to focus on enjoying at least one of my classes. I find a class, not taken in attempt to earn graduation credits, but taken to edify my life and prepare me for the journey after graduation. In a sense, it's a way of looking into the future.

One of my favorite classes this semester is "Christian Thought and Modern Literature: C.S. Lewis." We are consuming C.S. Lewis writings in this class, averaging a book a week. The reading load is intense, but I'm enjoying the discussion and insights of fellow classmates. I absolutely adore C.S. Lewis and am thrilled Evangel has essentially handed me an excuse to read an author I love. We just finished reading The Screwtape Letters and are in the middle of The Great Divorce (I have to finish reading it tonight)!

When I read the words C.S. Lewis penned so many years ago, I feel inspired. C.S. Lewis is one of my favorite authors and stands among the authors who inspired me to embark on a writing career. Next we'll be reading through the Chronicles of Narnia. It's been ages since I've journeyed through the doors of War Drobe, from the country of Spare Oom, into Narnia. I remember reading the series in third grade, fascinated by the mythical creatures and the adventures of Daughters of Eve and Sons of Adam. I remember The Silver Chair and The Horse and His Boy were my favorites. I loved watching the BBC movies. As I reread the series as an adult, I wonder what differences I'll come across. I'm excited! I love exploring old concepts through new eyes.

We often blindly accept views we developed at young ages. The experiences of growing up should challenge old perspectives. We should never become complacent, never stagnant. Classes provide opportunities for change. They challenge us to question old views and mindsets. Take time this semester to enjoy at least one class. Discuss newfound concepts with classmates and teachers. College is an opportunity for exploration, and Evangel provides and environment for God guided exploration. Reading C.S. Lewis helps me grow in my understanding of God. Truth is often found in the most unlikely of sources even from a beaver!

"'Safe?" said Mr. Beaver. "Who said anything about safe? 'Course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the King, I tell you.'" - The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe

God isn't safe. But He's good. He's the King, I tell you.

Go forth! Explore!

Blogger: Landon Johnson, Biology (Pre-Veterinary Med)
Date: 2/1/2012

Breaking up the work with a little DVD Bingo

What's up everyone!!!!

The semester is brewing, syllabus week is over, and I'm in the middle of one large Cell Biology test and one of two 13-page papers that need to be written within the next three weeks. But no big, I've got this (bites finger nails). The talk of the campus is the shear disbelief that we are already in the month of February, so it's good to know that I am not the only one feeling the pressure.

Study. Study. Study. The rule is, for every hour one is in class, he or she should study two hours. Of course that is easier said than done. There is always an activity that can temporarily take the place of a student's study - nightmare. Moreover, this Friday the Evangel Student Activities Board (AB) will be hosting the anticipated "DVD Bingo!"

"What is DVD Bingo?" you ask. The objective is in the name. Students across campus gather in the Evangel Crusader Hall for some good ole fashioned bingo. The prize at hand is none other than the latest cinematography, valued toilet paper, or even candy.

There is always something to do on Evangel's campus, and the EU Activities Board makes sure of that. Aside from the wonderful education that Evangel provides, the campus also provides an active environment, making sure students are participating in fun and exciting activities.

It's going to be a great semester. I can feel it. It will also be my last full semester, and I am petrified of what the Lord has in store me. But we'll just take it one day at a time. In recent news, I TORE MY ACL, and MENISCUS AS WELL - WOOT. Luckily they're both only partially torn so I do not need surgery, but goodness just something else to add to the stress. Be praying for me.

It's a great time to check out the Evangel Campus. We're in the middle of a semester - all the reason to visit and experience what it's like to put the pedal to the metal as an Evangel Student. Peace out you Guys-I'm checkin out!

Blogger: Lauren Simms, Communication & Social Science
Date: 1/25/2012

Sorry Lauren

Well, school is underway; homework has been assigned, tests have been planned, and some projects have already been turned in. Christmas break seems like ages ago, and yet spring break seems too far to reach.

The day after Christmas, my family and I went to Florida. My grandpa wasn't doing well, and Hospice had been called.

After a week with family, it was time to head home. The following morning we left Florida and made it to Atlanta, Georgia, around 4:30 that afternoon. It's a tradition that we stop at our favorite Mexican restaurant, Pappasitas.

We parked right by the door and walked in with the sun still shining. We were done by 5:45; and the closer I got to our car, the more I knew something wasn't right. I opened my door to find three of my bags missing.

One bag included my MacBook Pro and all of my chargers (phone, iPod, Nook, camera, computer, etc). Another bag included all of my personal things. The last bag was my purse; in it was my camera, iTouch, phone, and most importantly, my wallet.

As I began to think of all the things I no longer had (my writings, 6,000 pictures, school papers, my identity, and all of the things I had worked so hard for), I no longer could breathe. I leaned over, and experienced my first panic attack.

We ended up being with the police for more than three hours in Pappasitas' lobby, calling Apple, Bank of America and Verizon. A tool resembling a key was used to break in the vehicle; the tool goes into the lock of the driver's side and denigrates the lock without sounding off the alarm. My bank account was emptied in 6 minutes.

The value of the items stolen totaled $5,088.71.

We drove through and got to Springfield at 7:30 the next morning; I was awake on the ride home, crying and praying softly.

When my mom and I were driving in Springfield the next day, we saw the words "SORRY LAUREN" written on a bridge overpass. To this day, I don't know who put the message on the bridge. Whether or not they were originally meant for me, it was a beautiful message and just what I needed.

Three weeks later I received an insurance check that paid back every single item that was stolen, plus more. I heard this quote not long after, "I don't know what tomorrow holds, but I know who holds my tomorrow."

Writing this blog, telling this story still brings me to tears. Not because of what was taken, but because of who came to my rescue.

Because no matter what anyone takes from me, they will never be able to take away the one thing that means the most.

No one will ever be able to take away my God.

Blogger: Kara Ransom, Psychology
Date: 12/9/2011

A Time for Every Purpose

The fall semester is coming to a close. Winter is officially here as evidenced by the students bundled up in coats, scarves, and gloves as they walk across campus to take finals or to pack their cars for their trips home for Christmas Break. As all the final projects are completed and final exams are completed one by one, I reflect on how quickly time has flown.

I remember my first Christmas break of freshman year. I was so excited to go home for a month and be free from class schedules, assignments, papers, and tests. Now, four years later, my last undergraduate semester is coming to a close. Like that finals week four years ago, I am excited to spend time relaxing with family this Christmas. But this Christmas is different because I graduate. My time as an undergraduate student is coming to a close.

My final undergraduate project will be a service trip to Kenya-the trip that drew me to be a psychology major as a senior in high school. We leave on December 27 for the 2-week trip. I am so excited to serve the young people I will meet there, and just as importantly, I am excited to see what God will teach me through this experience. Though the Christmas decorations will be gone and the New Year will already be ushered in when we return to the States in January, I know that next year's December festivities will be here again before I know it.

Because I graduate this semester, this is likely the last entry I will write for this blog. I am reminded of Ecclesiastes 3:1, "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." My time here has come to a close, but I am excited to see what new purpose God has for me as I continue my journey with Him. Whether you have followed my blogs over the last couple years or are reading the Student-life blog for the first time, I hope that each of you will have a blessed Christmas.

As Dickens' Tiny Tim proclaimed: "God bless us, every one!"

Blogger: Landon Johnson, Biology (Pre-Veterinary Med)
Date: 11/28/2011

Turkey Day

Goodness gracious, where has time gone?!! Lately, I've seen my friends less and less and have gone to bed later and later. Times like these are characteristics of moments after midterms but not quite midterms; however, it means Turkey Day is here. Thanksgiving Day is upon us. A time to spend with grandparents, neighbors, distant cousins and even friends. For some students on Evangel's campus, Turkey Day looks like heading back home. Believe it or not, some students don't embark on a trip home to spend time with family or friends. Evangel is home to a variety of students with different backgrounds. A few of my friends' parents are missionaries and if they have no close immediate family they are given the opportunity, along with other missionary kids, to spend Thanksgiving in Colorado. Moreover, there are other students who for one reason or another choose to stay on campus. One thing good about college is if one isn't able to go home, there is always a person down the hall, in another dorm, an RD, or even a professor who is willing to open their homes. I hope everyone has had a wonderful Thanksgiving Break, I know I surely did. It's always a pleasure to write for you all. Landonius, Out.

Blogger: Lauren Simms, Communication
Date: 11/28/2011

Just Listen

"Listen for God's voice in everything you do and everywhere you go; He's the one that will keep you on track." - Proverbs 3:6

As I slowly read this verse, it seemed to take form into a beautiful melody that played softly in my mind. The verse was gentle, reassuring, and most of all, promising.

In times of confusion and in times where I'm so unsure as to what I should do, I often wish that God could speak to me with clear and obvious signs. I'm talking newspaper headlines, posted notes, and billboards that boldly speak His words that are unmistakably just for me. "Lauren, I've called you to be an ER doctor. Love, God" Now, first of all, unless God performs a huge miracle within me, there is no way I could possibly be an ER doctor. I'll tell you why; there is a great possibility that you would see me faint at the sight of large amounts of blood, seriously long needles, and body parts that are severely broken. Needless to say, I would most likely become a patient.

Second of all, God doesn't work that way. He isn't going to write His calling for my life and make it the headline of the Springfield News Leader. He has given each of us such unique and wonderful talents and gifts that only each of us has. With those and through those, He shows us our calling for our life. I find His calling for my life by seeking Him, by reading His word, by praying for His guidance, and by opening my ears to hear Him. Above everything, even in the times that He is silent and I am lost, I remember I am His. That leads me to suddenly remember something else - because I am His, I have everything.

The verse also reminds me of a movie I love, August Rush. It's a story of a musically talented young boy who can hear the sounds people cannot hear. He's an orphan who found his family, his calling, and himself. "Music is all around us, all we have to do is listen," he says this as the movie ends. Each time I watch that movie, the chills and the tears seem to follow his words. Not just because of the happy ending, but because of the significance it holds, the significance that God promises us the exact same thing. He promises us love, guidance, and hope. He promises to speak to us through His word, His people, and His blessings. He promises us that He will always be with us in everything we do and everywhere we go. He promises us that if we follow His plan for our lives, that He will give us a beautiful journey ahead.

It's just up to us to listen.

Blogger: Christina Jeter, English/Theater
Date: 11/28/2011

Meet the In-Laws

"I wish...more than anything..."

No more performances. No more practices. As the weekend draws near, I find it hard to believe the "Into the Woods" musical has closed. While this certainly opens up time for studying and sleeping, I can't help but feel a twinge of sadness. After the magnitude of time and effort invested.it's over.

As a double major, I feel as if I'm a member of two Evangel families. The English majors initiated me into college life. They understand the way my mind works. They understand the thrill of a good book. Or the drudgery that comes with the semester's heavy reading load and the countless papers demanding to be written. The semester is a time for reading and writing what teachers want. Summer is a time for reading and writing what you want. They get that. They get me.

Yet I have another family here at Evangel. The Theatre Department represents the "in-laws" of my Evangel family. No one understands their eccentricities, their quirks. We don't understand each other half the time, but, at the same time, we don't need to. There exists comradeship in the weirdness. We're family. We fight, we bicker, we laugh, we cry. Most important, when one of us is hurting, we help that person. Other departments would tear their hair out trying to understand the Theatre department. We don't really care. We are who we are and we like who we are. We put on a good show for other departments, but in the ends it's merely a show. I've enjoyed working with each and every person involved in "Into the Woods." We've all grown on some level as actors and as people. We pulled off a full musical as a student production. Wow! Isn't God amazing?

These last two weeks have been chaotic. With performances, papers and exams, combined with a family reunion and my cousin's wedding, I rarely had time for luxuries like sleep. It's safe to say I'm excited for the "down-time." However, the end of this show reminds me of the semester nearing its end. Soon the New Year will be here. I can't help but wonder what the future holds or what lessons are still to be learned. I love my Evangel families. They make the Evangel experience so much more enjoyable!

"You are not alone.believe me.no one is alone."

Blogger: Kara Ransom, Psychology
Date: 11/9/2011

Seasons of Life

The leaves are now falling, ushering in the blustery beginning of winter. I must say that winter is not my favorite season, yet it reminds me of Christmastime, which redeems my many memories of bitter wind and icy roads. It's hard to believe we only have four weeks of class before finals week. Where has the semester gone?

It's amazing how life is full of seasons. Just as I get comfortable in one season, the climate begins to change and a new season approaches. My season as an undergraduate student is closing, and I am beginning to see a new one approaching. Even though change is not my favorite season, it reminds me of growth and new opportunities and broad horizons.

My time at Evangel has been a blessing, and I feel fully prepared to take on the next set of life's challenges. I am thankful for all I have learned during my time at Evangel, and I am so excited to see what I will learn in the next season of my life.