One thing I’ve noticed at Belhaven, and this is probably the same wherever you went to, or are going to college, is that everyone has a different reason for going to college. Some people are here so they can make more money (which is ironic since most of the time you will come out of college with significant debt); some come to prove to a parent who wasn’t really there for them that they can make it on their own; some just want the experience of the kind of community that college creates. While none of these are necessarily bad reasons for coming I would encourage you to think about why are you looking at or attending college. Are you here because your parents told you to? Perhaps you’ve seen the numbers about the incomes of high school verses college graduates. One student I talked to said she was here to prove to her dad who ran out on her mom that she didn’t need him to succeed. Some people just feel like it’s something you have to do, it’s part of life. That was probably why I came–that and I felt like I couldn’t learn the art skills I needed without some kind of higher education. I am very glad to be here and a feel like this is where God wants me. College is a good transition into real life and a good time to practice before you’re completely out on your own.
I guess what I’m trying to say with all this rambling is I don’t think college should just be a place you go so you can earn more money. I don’t think that fits with what the Bible teaches about the love of money. Our purpose in life shouldn’t be to climb as high as we can in the corporate ladder or make the most money. Our chief end is to glorify God in all that we do. If this involves having a successful business then so be it. I think that college should be a place where you develop the skills God has given you. Focus on glorifying Him and He will direct your path. College is also a good place to grow closer to God. It can be hard to make the time for reading your bible with the busy college schedule. But at the same time you are no longer under your parents guidance and you’re free to pursue a relationship that isn’t directed and sometimes required by them.
Just something to think about as you look into college or consider your career. There is nothing that says you can’t serve God effectively without a degree. God has a plan that is unique to the way he made you. He will show you what He desires of your life. If college is where he is leading you then enjoy it. But don’t forget who’s in control. These aren’t the years when you find yourself–these are the years when you make yourself who you’re going to be. Take advantage of the unusually flexible time in your life to serve God and discover what he has in store for you. Proverbs 16:9 A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.
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