When I was in high school and adulthood was looming far off in the distance, I had my mind made up on one important decision already. From having talked to some older and wiser people, I knew that I wanted to attend a Christian university. Even though my faith was weak at the time, I was confident that going to a place with such a safe and flourishing environment would be an excellent choice. The “classic” college lifestyle would be much less prevalent there, and that is exactly what I wanted.

I knew it would be great, but I didn’t expect it to be this awesome. Reflecting on my first year of college, I can say with confidence that my expectations were met and even surpassed.

There are so many things I have to be grateful for, and all were part of the package of my decision to go to Freed-Hardeman University, a private Christian college. What the millennial generation of Christians needs is the opportunity to build a strong foundation in a world which grows darker every day. In choosing to go to Freed, Harding, and other such institutions, you get the privilege of doing just that. Here are a few qualities about my school that I am the most grateful for.

Thank you for the overwhelming presence of amazing Christian examples.

This is the real deal. A place where everyone comes together with a common belief, the desire to please God with their lives, is such a blessing. I have so many people who are around my age and older who have many opportunities to serve the Lord in front of their peers. Social clubs and chapel are places where the hearts of those on campus really shine through.

Thank you for Bible classes.

One of the built-in features to help us grow in the Lord is taking a Bible class every semester. A few are chosen for you, but the rest you get to decide yourself. Having professors who are Godly men and women and love you with His love, and want you to grow in Him as well, is such a step up from having teachers who simply may or may not want you to succeed. Integrating Christian faith into other classes is also hugely beneficial to students.

Thank you for friends who are on the same path as I am.

That is, the one to heaven. Having peers around me who don’t swear and tell dirty jokes because they are holding themselves to the same standards that I am is something I hadn’t experienced until I came to college. It was such a pleasant surprise. Being surrounded by good examples means so much. It makes it easier for you to grow and not be discouraged by what you may have heard every day in a public school. By the time I graduate in 3 years, the friends I've made surely have potential to become lifelong friends.

Thank you for your strict rules.

Even though many of us may think, at times, that curfew is far too early, it often forces us to buckle down on schoolwork. It is far easier to focus on what’s important at a place that isn’t riddled with keg parties or other questionable forms of entertainment. And not being allowed in the dorms of the opposite sex really diminishes the possibility of sinning in that area. That’s what is important; believe it or not, this is one of the central reasons I knew I wanted to be at Freed.

Thank you, America.

We really take for granted the ability to worship freely as a church nationwide. It is also a blessing to be able to have places where education and religion tie together at a point in life where it is crucial. Just the fact that several schools like mine exist here is so important. This nation may not be considered the most holy, but I thank God that it is free.