Choosing a College: What Are Your Priorities?

By Joanna Veith

When I was a senior in high school, college represented everything that I wanted in life: new faces, limitless opportunities and unexpected adventures. There was nothing more exciting, and yet, there was no decision more daunting.Test scores, application essays and financial aid worries were stressful enough. Add to that the never-ending stream of college mailings, each brochure boasting of small class sizes and state-of-the-art facilities, promising me happiness and success as long as I picked that school.The choices seemed endless, but how would I find the best school for me?

When I finally chose a college, my decision had little to do with the glossy brochures the admissions office sent me. I wanted a fun school with a rigorous academic program, but I also wanted to continue to nourish my faith. I chose my school because it had a confessional Lutheran church nearby which sponsored an active Lutheran Student Fellowship program. I knew that although my life would drastically change in college, my need for God’s Word and Sacrament would not.

I realized that my church was a tremendous gift from God the moment classes began. Many of my professors attempted to turn my thinking away from God, presenting ideas that weren’t just unscriptural but also mocking and belittling to the Christian faith. Even after spending eleven quality years in the Lutheran school system, I was not always prepared to counter my professors. At these times, God used my pastor and church to keep me grounded in my faith. My pastor fed me God’s Word as we reasoned together for the truth. Weekly Bible studies supplemented my academic education so that I was able to grow in my knowledge of the Lord while also learning to practice discernment against false teachings.

Non-Christian professors were not the only threat on campus. Alcohol, drug abuse and premarital sex were acceptable parts of campus culture, and every type of religious belief ranging from Buddhism to Wicca was available to fill the spiritual voids of my peers. My Lutheran church kept me from wondering in doubt like many of my lost friends. I saw first hand that a college campus is an important mission field, and I witnessed many students come to faith after hearing the life saving words of the Gospel.

In addition to these great spiritual gifts from God, becoming involved in a Lutheran church which properly administers God’s Word and Sacrament has social benefits as well. An active Lutheran Student Fellowship provides an instant circle of friends who understand the challenges of being a Christian on campus. Families in the congregation are often hospitable and generous, sharing home-cooked meals and Christian fellowship with those who simply cannot face another meat loaf night in the dining hall. Looking back, I know I chose the best school for me. I enjoyed lots of adventures, gained a world-class education, and, thanks to my confessional Lutheran church, grew in my faith, battle-hardened and prepared for whatever God has in store for me next.

Joanna Veith works for the state department in Annapolis, Maryland.