Houston Baptist University Top Questions

The number one piece of advice I would give to a parent or a student trying to find the right college is to make sure that the student feels right at the school. Safety is a very important factor when leaving home, most importantly for the parents piece of mind. It is not only important to feel the atmosphere of the campus, but to understand all of the safety precausions the school has in place for their students. Are there campus police? Is there an escort service? How about emergency call stations placed throughout the campus? This shouldnt be taken lightly because the student is there to further their education in a safe and fun environment. It is important to check out those features because it is a new place that studnets need to work into their routine. After a short time the student will become comfortable, just like at home, feeling safe. The important thing is that they will know about campus safety if and when they ever need to put it into practice.

I believe that the two most important aspects of a college or university are the spiritual environment and the academic influence. It is important to attend a school in which you know you can find other students that agree with your religous preferences. During your college years, there will be many different influences that push you to agree with them. This is apart of the process and it is something to be embraced because as a student you are the only person who can decided what you believe. Also, if there is strong academic influence at your school, you will be very likely to succeed. It is important to surround yourself with people who are academically minded but who also know how to have fun at times. I believe so strongly in this because the primary purpose of college is to get an education and be prepared for a successful career. Remember that if you put what you most value first, you will have an enjoyable higher education experience and be ready to conquer the world ahead.

Make sure that the goal for both the parent and student is to find a school that has great academic attributes, and a great department in the area you want to major in. Find a school that is growing and has alot of extra-curricular activities and high school spirit. These are supposedly the "best four years of your life" as the saying goes, so take the time to find and be serious about getting in to your dream college atleast a year or two before you go. Find out what you can about the faculty and how accomidating the school is personally. Make friends with current students, ask questions, apply to back up colleges, but always aim for your dream school.

My parents have taught me something life-changing. Finding the right college and making the most of the college experience depends on this. They taught me to trust in the Lord with all my heart and to not lean on my own understanding. Trusting in God involves intimitely speaking to God in prayer, asking for His wisdom and guidance, waiting for His answer, and aknowledging Him in everything. Suddenly the question of what life's purpose is comes to mind. Why do people go to a university after all? What experience do students want in college? Is the root of all this selfishness and greed or just an exiting interest? Class sizes, academic standing, fraternities, social groups, and career opportunities resonate in students' minds. There is something bigger and better to life than just worrying about those things. Place every plan and decision in God's hands, and He will use your life far above your expectations as a blessing to others and as a testimony of trust for His glory. He, not you, will find the right college for you. Also, your college experience of study, learning, and friendship will have a whole new meaning to life with Him.