Evangel's Student Life Blog

Allow me to Introduce myself

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:47:00 CST

Ian Richardson: 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.

Safe? Who Said Anything About Safe?

Sun, 5 Feb 2012 14:54:00 CST

Christina Jeter: 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!

Breaking up the work with a little DVD Bingo

Wed, 1 Feb 2012 09:51:00 CST

Landon Johnson: 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!

Sorry Lauren

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:06:00 CST

Lauren Simms: 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.

A Time for Every Purpose

Fri, 9 Dec 2011 14:42:00 CST

Kara Ransom: 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!"

Turkey Day

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 10:14:00 CST

Landon Johnson:

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.

Just Listen

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 10:11:00 CST

Lauren Simms:

"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.

Meet the In-Laws

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 10:08:00 CST

Christina Jeter: "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."

Seasons of Life

Wed, 9 Nov 2011 11:42:00 CST

Kara Ransom: 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.

Calling Role

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 10:37:00 CST

Lauren Simms: 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.

It's Homecoming! Woot, Woot!

Wed, 5 Oct 2011 15:57:00 CST

Landon Johnson: 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.

How He Loves

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 13:52:00 CST

Kara Ransom: 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.

Taking Time

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 10:32:00 CST

Lauren Simms: 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.

Hello Hurricane

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 15:59:00 CST

Christina Jeter: 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.

A Time of Transition

Fri, 2 Sep 2011 11:59:00 CST

Kara Ransom: 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?

Here We Go

Fri, 2 Sep 2011 11:25:00 CST

Landon Johnson: 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.