Istill remember walking around campus my first day at Harding. Like everyone else in new surroundings, I felt a bit overwhelmed with this new stage in life. I didn’t know what to expect and I certainly didn’t know what was going to happen the next four years of my life. Everything was so new to me, but looking back, it has all helped me in my growth. I have seen tremendous growth in my life, but most importantly growth in my walk with Christ.
I will forever be grateful to Harding for helping me grow closer to him. We are blessed to be surrounded by God-fearing faculty and staff. At first I was very intimidated by the faculty with their Ph.D.s, their wisdom and high offices but in reality, they’re just followers of Christ trying to live out the same calling as we are.
Two people on the faculty that have helped me embrace my Harding experience are Monte Cox and Andrew Baker. Their words of wisdom and guidance have helped me understand my place in the kingdom.
They have taken me under their wings and steered my life toward the cross. I have been mentored and influenced by these two men. When I have needed someone to talk to, they have been there. They are a great source of encouragement and affirmation. I urge you to find those people and seek them out.
Don’t be intimidated by the faculty or staff. They are here because they want to be here. They aren’t forced to be here; as a matter of fact many of them have taken pay cuts so that they can help students grow academically, and most importantly, spiritually. They have had years of experience in their respective fields and are eager to pass along knowledge to students. Jesus was constantly encouraging and affirming his 12. He was selfless and helped prepare them for their ministry. Like Jesus, the faculty and staff are here to prepare us to be lights in this world. Ask for their advice. Accept invitations to dinner at their homes. But most of all, thank them for their dedication to Harding and love for the student body.
