We all inevitably consider if we have in fact made the right college choice. This is especially true after the March 1 application deadline as we watch prospective students choosing between Biola University, state schools and other private institutions. During these moments, we should take the time to strongly reflect upon what this unique university has to offer and how it is different. By engaging in this, it does not take long to see that Biola’s ability to impact lives stretches far beyond other universities. Why? Because they not only care for the intellectual advancement of the mind, but also the development of character.
I have realized the importance of this by keeping Christ at the center of my life. This is by no means an easy task. The truth of the matter is, there will always be avenues that present stumbling blocks of varying severity. The vital difference here is the support of the like-minded students around me who all have the same end goal in mind — to love God and love others in such a radically profound way that makes the world notice. A Biola University education includes three primary aspects that achieve this: knowing, being and doing. It is about acting effectively upon convictions, being Christ-like in character, and displaying a high level of competency in living our lives. The world is no longer seeing what we ourselves can do, but the great work of God through us.
At Biola University you are more than just a number; you are seen as one made in the image of God set apart to do his work. The problem of secular universities is that they only see half of the puzzle. What good is career training if it disregards spiritual training? It is one thing to be instructed exclusively on how to succeed in your chosen field, but a far more flourishing experience to receive character training as well. This institution is the foundation on which the two coincide and are integrated at one of the most important times in our lives.
This describes the key facet of the integration of biblical truth into scholarship that is among the best in the nation, and executed on an extremely demanding level. It is the task of each student here, regardless of their chosen field, to engage in the intellectual life, to give our utmost for His highest. Here, we strive to “make it matter.” It is about performing to the best of our ability because, as a community, we realize that the fruits of our labor extend past our own glory. They resonate into eternity to the One who truly deserves such exaltation. Therefore, students at this institute must realize that it is a great responsibility. As Luke 12:48 reminds us, “From those to whom much is given, much is required.”
It is my prayer for current students to realize that a college education based on prestige, the quantity of people, and coveted location is fleeting. Rather, I hope we will deeply contemplate what we want to gain and what kind of person we desire to become during our college journey. My longing is to remain reliant on the Lord in every step I take during this endeavor, that in the end I may be able to see how every action sown then reaped his faithfulness. By choosing to go here, I have already begun to see God’s faithfulness revealed in my life —and it awaits those who choose to embark on this transformational journey.
It is a primary desire for Biola for students to be filled with conviction and courage. These two core ideas were utilized by president Barry Corey on Feb. 25, during Spring Preview Day, when he said, “Conviction points us back to our core beliefs. Courage is taking a deep breath and moving forward boldly from those convictions. Conviction without courage goes nowhere. Courage without conviction goes anywhere. We need both.”
In the end, it is our responsibility recognize convictions from the Holy Spirit and act upon them courageously as a student. Bigger isn’t always better and not all education is created equal. At Biola University it is about equipping students with the best training possible to advance the purpose of Jesus Christ consistently in all areas of our lives.
