I go to a small, southern, Christian university. I didn't originally want that for myself, but God called me to the ministry and I had to listen. To be honest, I had to be dragged to my school for a tour because of how skeptical I was of going to a Christian college. Now that I'm a sophomore here, I can't picture myself anywhere else. What changed my perspective from one of skepticism to one of sheer adoration, you may ask. Well...

1) It's small so I see familiar faces constantly. Not only that, but my professors know my name and when I'm in their class.

2) There's no added stress of rush week. I know Greek life is great for many individuals and I'm in no way putting them down, but I personally appreciate not having this added stress of being judged by multiple girls in hopes to be accepted. We're all on one level here and it's comforting to have that.

3) Every Wednesday I get to start my day off with a worship service. Chapel is so helpful in beginning my Wednesdays with a positive outlook. Nothing is quite as awesome as worshiping with my fellow classmates.

4) The community is strong. I went to a large high school where I never saw my friends again when the semester was over. At my small Christian school I have best friends who aren't in my major. I remember one of my best friends barely even knowing me when she helped me through the toughest semester of my life. She hugged me while I cried and brought me sushi. The desire we have on our campus to strengthen each other in hard times tends to build friendships that are stronger than steel.

5) Going to church isn't even a question. It's no secret that many college kids quit church when they have the choice. Many say they had a "drug problem" being that their parents "drug them to church." At a Christian school, everyone goes to church and on the off chance they don't, someone will badger them to join their church-going group. Christ-centered fellowship is what we live for.

6) There are people holding you accountable at every turn. When your grades slip, someone will be there to help you buckle up and study. When you do something that you'll wind up regretting, someone will call you out and encourage you to stay on the straight and narrow.

On the outside, the life of a Christian university may seem dull. We aren't all about parties or "living it up" the way most college kids do. However, the good times and bad times I've had here have shown me how to live, how to selflessly love, and how to have the most fun while keeping my almost 20 years of sobriety. I'm so thankful that God put me here.