Student Life Blogs

Blogger: John Mowery, English/Pre-Seminary
Date: 03/15/2010

Well, I’m sitting in the passenger seat of my roommate’s car, somewhere in Indiana, on our way back to Evangel after spending spring break back home in Pennsylvania. We have another seven hours, so I thought I’d break out the laptop and blog.

After spending a week with family and friends, I’m ready to be back on campus and finish up these last two months of school. I’m definitely looking forward to summer. Only a few of my courses this semester had official “midterms,” so I had one or two before break and I’ll have another one soon after getting back on campus. Classes are going well; I think we will be scheduling next fall’s classes soon.

Many Evangel students spent their spring break on various mission trips or study-abroad sessions. One of my class friends is currently in Calcutta, India putting her nursing skills to practice. The mission and study-abroad trips are incredible ways for Evangel students to reach out and make a difference in the world. The trips are great opportunities for students to develop a better, more-well rounded worldview. I plan on possibly studying in Greece next spring break, learning about the foundations of Western culture.

As I look back on my freshmen year thus far, I am so happy that God led me here. I’ve been so blessed with opportunities to grow as a person. I wanted to get involved and I have been able to do that. I recently was chosen as a resident assistant in my dorm, Krause Hall, for next year. God is faithful. As I pursue opportunities to step into leadership experiences, he continues to open doors. I’ve grown so much in just one year. I feel like I’ve learned to view the world in completely different light. The future is bright, exciting, and not too scary. For that, I give EU kudos!

Blogger: John Mowery, English/Pre-Seminary
Date: 02/17/2010

It's a brand new day; it's time for a new blog entry!

It's about ten-thirty on a busy Tuesday night, and I have just returned from an amazing chapel service and a productive ESGA meeting. The chapel was incredible! I am amazed at the commitment and talent represented within the Student-Led Chapel team, a group of students who volunteer to plan, promote, organize, and run chapel services on Tuesday nights, every other week, throughout the semester. Tonight was really something else. The group procured the main chapel for the service, the first time I've been in an alternate service in the main chapel. The worship band was stellar as always, the prayer teams were available, and fellow student blogger Martin Campbell delivered a great message! God really showed up and worked on my heart. I'm sure many other students would testify to the same effect.

Student-Led Chapels is just one example of the many different ministries a student can be involved with on campus! If you want to be involved, you will find something to be involved with. As a student blogger I'm regularly plugged into EU's website, evidenced by the blog you are currently reading. My involvement with ESGA allows me the opportunity to collaborate on class events such as the Freshmen-Sophomore banquet (the topic of tonight’s meeting!) or Freshman class alternate chapels. I sit in on the my dorm's Hall Council as Krause clerk, helping plan hall events and discussing topics related to the dorm activity. Right now I am in the process of applying for one of the six open Resident Assistant spots in Krause Hall, plan on becoming more involved with Student-Led Chapels, and pondering possible work-study opportunities next semester. The point is that there is so much to be involved with on campus! Evangel provides ample opportunities for students to grow in their leadership abilities. God will use the opportunities here to shape you into the person He has preordained you to be. If you are here and you are not getting involved yet, I encourage you to take a step of faith and stretch yourself. God will use you! And for prospective students, I encourage you as well to take a leap and consider what God could do in you here at Evangel University.

Blogger: Martin Campbell, Biblical Studies/English/Biblical Languages
Date: 02/16/2010

In addition to the awesome experiences EU students have on campus, we are supplemented with a city full of engaging places to visit and restaurants to eat at. On Sunday evening every week, the Café does not serve dinner, so many students take those nights either to eat store-bought goods in the residence halls or to explore the numerous eateries around town. I make it a priority to visit different places to experience the atmosphere, food and exciting moments with friends and family.

Notable places around the Springfield area include a wide variety of cultural eateries:

Italian: While we have an Olive Garden nearby the mall, Macaroni Grill is also a classy Italian eatery. When our EU Senators ate there earlier this year, they had a live performer occasionally walk around to sing.

Japanese Hibachi/Sushi: We have Kyoto next door to the school for great Japanese food and warm service. It has more of an intimate atmosphere for smaller groups. Also, numerous Japanese Hibachi grills like Nakato, Fuji, O’Hana, and others feature chefs grilling the food in front of you while doing knife tricks and other routines (like making an onion volcano). Sushi places are also very appealing in Springfield. If you have not tried sushi before (which is not just raw fish), it is worth a shot to eat at places like Kai or Haruno where they offer special college discounts and prices during certain hours.

Mexican: Within a three-mile radius of EU, there are about four Mexican eateries. Besides Taco Bell (which is, to many students’ relief, right across the street and open late), Chipotle and Qdoba are great Mexican eateries, but Chipotle is very good about serving EU students – they also offer free burritos once or twice every semester!

Chinese: Jade East is right across the street with a buffet at around $6. There are numerous Chinese buffets, but in my opinion, New China buffet (on Campbell St. south of Bass Pro Shop) has amazing food as well as a hibachi grill and sushi buffet. Mr. Yen’s Palace is also a great place to eat; however, it is not a buffet. It is actually rather fun to explore inside and outside of the building too because the layout and architecture has an appeal all of its own. Did I mention that Springfield is the home of Cashew Chicken?

Korean: There are not too many of these, but my family and friends enjoy going to this quaint place called Golden Korean. I ate with one of my professors here once, and we had a blast. Most of the food is served in hot stone bowls which keeps the food nice and hot.

American: In addition to the staple “to-go” places, some great restaurants include Buffalo Wild Wings, Ruby Tuesday, Applebees, Cheddars, and Lambert’s! Lambert’s is quite an experience. Although it is located away a little farther away, the “throwed rolls” are well worth the drive. The meal entrees are bottomless, so if by some chance one plate is not enough, just order another one! Lambert’s attracts quite a lot of tourists, and the service is top-notch!

To the benefit of many Evangel University fans, all of these mentioned places are only a supplemental part of the awesome college experience. Furthermore, there are just too many places to visit! Friends and family alike will love the restaurants around the EU area, and I hope that someday, reader, you may be able to try some of these great places with friends and family.

Blogger: Alex Kennedy, Business Management
Date: 02/15/2010

This semester is shaping up to be like every other Spring semester, which means, tons of events!! My calendar is filled with something almost every day until graduation. I am personally excited about one specific event coming up — the Eurasia Experience.

The Eurasia Experience takes place this week! I had the opportunity to experience this event over the Summer at the General Council of the Assemblies of God. Rich Smalley, our missionary in residence, has arranged for it to come to Evangel for us to experience on our campus. Imagine being transported to a Eurasian country, smell the scents, witness the crowd, and see the clothing. It’s such an incredible opportunity to learn more about Eurasian culture. The most powerful part is the ending, where missionary stories are told from their experience in Eurasia.

It will take place during our normal chapel service, but I can guarantee that the students of Evangel have never seen a chapel service like this before! I can’t wait to experience the Eurasia Experience again, but this time with my EU Family!

Blogger: Bethany Blevins, Theatre/Speech Education
Date: 02/14/2010

It is freezing in Springfield, Missouri. No, literally, it is freezing! Since being at Evangel, I have experienced more snow than I had in my entire life. This is not too hard to accomplish considering I grew up in Texas, and it snowed once every six years. I can remember telling my classmates that I loved winter because I could wear sweaters and coats, and I did not have to sweat … ever. “Winters” growing up were great. Not only has Evangel widened my perspectives on culture, religion and language, but also on the seasons. It did not take me long to realize that season that I loved so much was actually considered Autumn by the remainder of the country! Hint to all my Southern people out there… when it takes you 15 minutes to get to work and it has just snowed, give yourself time to clean off your car.

Winter hasn’t been so awful! I have managed to get myself outside and throw around a few snowballs. (No snow-angels of yet, but I know they are sure to come). I am enjoying my classes this semester! The work has keeps me busy, but the end result is rewarding because I am enjoying the material! I understand that not every semester is like this (believe me — I’ve been there), but I think that it is important to keep your goal in mind. One day I want to teach, and I know that I have to take certain classes to earn my certification. Keeping my focus on that goal has really helped me make the most of my college experience! So when going to and from classes, remember that everything you do has a purpose and is for a purpose — even if you have to tread through piles of snow to find it!

Blogger: Brandon Montoya, Biology/PreMed
Date: 02/12/2010

It’s so good to be back!

I can hardly believe I’m starting the final semester of my college career. Exciting …and, yet, thoughts of leaving are anything but sweet.

I remember preparing for my first semester here. “Honors floor, mom? Really??”  It turned out to be the greatest group of guys one could know.

And for the record, we’re called the DIGs.

… to take pride in any other classification would be an injustice to the [true] honor vested in us by our graduated predecessors: men whose unrelenting sense of class not only demanded respect but defined it.

The last few of us who remain from my freshman year do our best to glory in THAT legacy.

I pray for God’s guidance and continued blessing in the many exciting transitions ahead.

My soul finds its resolve, however, in the prospect of joining the ranks of great men like Tim Hill, Nate King, Jorge Lima and many others whose hearts continue to echo the solid statutes of our beloved Hoodrich. I love you, men.

And to those who remain …stay classy, gentlemen.

Blogger: Brianna Mingus, Psychology/Communication
Date: 02/11/2010

These last few weeks I have noticed the unique connectedness the administration, faculty, and staff has with students.

President Spence came into a Psychology course and spoke of his earlier experiences ministering to people in a mental institution. It was cool to see the lessons he learned about God and humanity and how he applies that to his current leadership. He gave us the opportunity to ask questions in which he gave very genuine answers.

Dr. Grant Jones opened up his home and fed Psi Chi (Psychology Club). Jones and his wife are always great hosts and make some great coffee from Kenya! The group played games (Catch Phrase is always a favorite) and laughed a lot. 

My boss at Lifeworks, Sheri Phillips, talks out life problems and helps with future career and academic plans. She also guides my Strengths research (which will be posted soon on the Evangel Web site!!)

My case is not an exception. I have heard stories from other friends of professors or staff taking an hour out of their busy/chaotic day just to talk about life or relationships. This relatedness fuels the warm community that Evangel is known for. Proverbs 13:20 says “whoever walks with the wise becomes wise.” And a wise man once said … it is time for a SNOW DAY!!!

Blogger: Kara Brand, Psychology/English
Date: 02/09/2010

Two Hearts as One … My weekend was amazing! Every year Evangel’s counseling services sponsors a premarital retreat for the low price of $30 per couple. This year the retreat consisted of a two night’s stay in the Lodge of the Ozarks in Branson, approximately eight premarital sessions, bottomless candy dishes, overflowing snack tables, and all meals were included! Needless to say, Evangel heavily sponsors this event in order to keep the cost affordable for young engaged or soon-to-be-engaged couples.

Having my school, and more particularly the counseling service, invest in my future marriage the way they did this weekend makes me want to succeed even more than I did before. You may be thinking, “That sounds great, but I’ll bet it was like sitting on a therapists couch all weekend!” Though this is a valid thought since the speakers are Licensed Professional Counselors, that statement could not be farther from the reality of this retreat!

Every session was concisely relevant to the needs of couples facing marriage. Every part of this retreat was formulated with us in mind. They offered sessions on Redefining Love — what the Bible says about love; Communication/Conflict Resolution — the importance of strong communication and “fighting fairly;” Finances — how to give, budget, and save referencing biblical standards, smart spending, and saving for the future. There were many more sessions including the Love and Respect breakout session — my personal favorite. In this session the guys and the girls separated into different rooms and discussed the many differences between men and women. The women focused on a man’s need for respect; the guys discussed a woman’s need for love and what that looks like in real-life relationships.

The final session was Sunday morning, and the session was based on 1 Corinthians 13, the “Love Chapter.” This was eye-opening as the speaker explained how we can follow the model God placed in His Word, making our relationships everything God meant for them to be.

The love and care I experienced this weekend is another of many reasons why I love Evangel! Where else could I find a university staff that cares about their students enough to provide such a life-changing event at such an affordable cost? And where else would I be able to go on a premarital retreat and learn what God wants for my relationship as fiancé and soon-to-be wife?

The care shown at this retreat is truly representative of what Evangel stands for: Equipping students with all they need to become everything God wants them to be.

Blogger: John Mowery, Pre-Seminary/English
Date: 1/28/2010

The frigid blasts of winter air mark the beginning of a new semester at Evangel University. I enjoyed my winter vacation visiting family, seeing friends, and being generally lazy. But now it’s time to jump into my second semester and a brand new array of classes, professors, and friends. Being home for almost a month was a great way to unwind from the stress and constant running to and fro of the first semester, but after a few weeks of doing as little as possible I was ready to get back to campus.

Now that I have one semester under my belt, things seem to flow a little more now. Registration was much simpler this semester and finding my textbooks was not nearly as difficult. Finding my classrooms and preparing for each course was easier, especially after having a little experience deciphering professors’ syllabi. I’m taking a full course load this semester, but it’s really not that burdensome. My courses will probably prove to be a little more challenging this time around, but I’m ready for the opportunity to further hone my learning and studying techniques. I already like my new professors and plan to continue to keep in touch with old ones.

The semester is slowly picking up. These first few weeks haven’t been particularly busy for me. Besides a Krause Hall officers meeting and a few upcoming Student Council meetings, I haven’t had to rush into too much just yet. I’m just gradually growing acclimated to my new routine. I’m ready to see God start new things in my life in the upcoming months. For all of you prospective students: Use this time wisely! Send in your applications, take all the right tests, talk to your admission counselor, and fill out your FAFSA and hunt for scholarships. The more you do now, the more relaxed and peaceful you will be about your transition from high school to college this summer. Take it from the guy who didn’t apply to Evangel until three months before he arrived on campus: Being on top of things is a better way to go! Enjoy your last few months of high school and don’t develop a case of senioritis.

Blogger: Alex Kennedy, Business Management
Date: 1/22/2010

It’s been two and a half years since the first time I stepped on Evangel's campus and moved into Spence Hall. It’s hard to imagine that in just a few short months I will be an Evangel Alumna! Before I can proudly display my Evangel Alumni Association keychain, I have a full semester to finish. To finish the semester out right, I am taking a class in a new department for me, International Multicultural Studies.

As a friendly introduction to living cross-culturally, we played a little game. The class was divided into four teams, given directions to a card game, we could practice but after five minutes, the rules were completely taken away and there was no verbal communication for the rest of the class. The game started out fine, placing the cards down to compete for the highest card, and won a few rounds with my excellent strategy. The winner was supposed to move to a higher-numbered table, then the loser of the round to a lower- numbered table. As we went to another table, playing the game again, we were suddenly extremely confused. The hand that I know I clearly won was given to someone else. As the game continued, it became a little heated, because no words could be said there was gesturing and pointing back and forth! Our professor (and Campus Pastor) sat us down so that we could discuss what happened.

This exercise gave us an example of what it is like going into another culture and not playing by their rules. One of the reasons that I love being at Evangel so much is that I know for a fact classes are not a waste of time! All of my classes this semester I feel are so crucial to my EU experience — and all things I am so interested in! Can’t wait to see how this semester unfolds!!

Blogger: Kara Brand, Psychology/English
Date: 1/21/2010

Another semester gone and another started …it’s crazy, amazing, and unbelievable — all at once! I had a GREAT Christmas break! It was so nice to be home with family and to visit with friends. I actually had a girl’s night with a couple friends from high school, Madelyn and Colleen, while I was home. We were all on Christmas break; it really made me flash back in time! We had not had a sleep-over since before we graduated in 2008, so this was great catch-up time. At the same time, our little “sleep-over” was bitter-sweet because I realized it would probably be the last girl’s sleep-over for the three of us because Colleen and I are both engaged. Of course, we are both excited about taking this new step set before us, but we are also coming to realize all the change that will take place in 2010.Whatever the case, we had a great time and made some great memories I will always remember. :)

In coming back to EU, getting settled and starting classes devoured my first week. This semester is well underway: it is only the fifth class, and I already have my first paper due! I know — crazy right? Well, it’s just a self-introduction for my Theology class, so it wasn’t like a research paper or anything, though it did make me research myself a little bit. :P

My classes are great this semester! Some of them are quite challenging … but I’ve always loved challenges! I’ve decided to switch from Journalism to English this semester, so I am now a Psychology and English major. I’m really excited about my new major!

Life, in general, is amazing! I absolutely love being a student at Evangel, and I will be getting married in May! Nathen proposed just before Thanksgiving break, and we set the date very soon after. Therefore, I have a very busy semester ahead! Working, studying, reading (lots of reading!), planning — all these things will fill my every minute from now until May 6 (the last day of finals week). Well, that’s what’s happening here. You should come visit for EU:24 in March, and see what could happen here for you!

Blogger: Brianna Mingus, Psychology/Communication
Date: 1/15/2010

2010 is here!! Each Evangel student experiences different sentiments toward heading back to school after a long, winter break. Personally, being a native of the Ozarks, I was ready for everyone to return. My break was pretty good full of relaxing, sleeping in, and watching movies. I spent fun times with the family bowling, eating, and visiting my grandma in the nursing home.

With friends I saw Avatar in 3-D, played Wii, and devastatingly watched Texas choke in the championship game. : ( In the past few weeks I have attended two weddings, while a plethora of friends have gotten engaged. Life is constantly changing, and the closer I am to getting kicked out into the “real world” the more I realize this fact.

I am excited for 2010, the bumps that I have already experienced and the good times that are yet to come. For seniors we have one more semester to finish strong and deepen our relationships with God and each other. Let the classes begin ….

Blogger: Brandon Montoya, Biology/PreMed
Date: 12/21/2009

Well, everything is in order. I will be boarding flight # [something rather], one-stop service to DIA, tomorrow at 1300horas. I am so grateful for my time here in Costa Rica. I reflect on everything God has brought about, and it’s incredibly humbling.

To sum it all up, I think I can appropriately liken the experience to my attempt at surfing … I just really didn’t see it coming (the exception, of course being that “it” doesn’t end in a mouthful of sand, on the more divine side of the simile).

It really has been incredible. I’m sure I will always reflect on the memories fondly.

Still, I’m ready to go home. God’s hand in life’s dynamic is one of the most beautiful things that we as Christians are able to behold. And I feel like it’s just too perfect here …

I miss Him in cruel winters, and for Christmas sake … I’m ready to put on a coat!

Blogger: Martin Campbell, Biblical Studies/English/Biblical Languages
Date: 12/15/2009

All-nighters and energy drinks are hallmarks of finals week. For some, finals week is a time to relax due to the lack of tests. For others, finals week is a time where students can pull their hair out, panic, study, panic some more, write reports, read, study, and then cry on someone’s shoulder when it is all said and done. Residence life has no greater trial than finals week!

Prior to finals week, students are given a day off of classes in order to do class-work, to pack for break, or to relax. That day is affectionately called “dead day.” Then, usually over the course of three days, students take exams or turn in big projects for each class. It is a very challenging time because there is typically a lot of weight placed on final exams.

Other than that, the month of December is vibrant here on campus. Numerous Christmas parties are scattered throughout the month including Krause Hall’s infamous “Higgins” party. Students can usually expect to be involved in “White Elephant” gift exchanges where students get a gift under $5 and somewhat randomly exchanges it with someone else. Ceramic unicorns, Yahtzee, and goldfish are all fair game with White Elephant presents. In addition, Christmas lights are up around the city and in the rooms across campus.

While it gets cold enough to pull out the winter coats, hats, and gloves, it only snowed a few times so far this semester. We typically get more snow in January – sometimes enough to cancel classes. At any rate conditions look good this year for many who are traveling home for Christmas. Prior to leaving for the holidays, students who live on campus complete a checkout with their floor RAs.

It may be a little chilly, but the joy that is across campus for Christmas fills the days here with warmth. I personally had a good share of hot cocoa and apple cider during movie nights, and I have thoroughly enjoyed of plenty of awesome Christmas programs including our very own Christmas concert. Our Christmas concert raised a lot of food donations for those over the holidays throughout the Ozarks. Props to the EU orchestra, University Chorus, Jazz Band, and Chorale! I enjoy seeing the school help the community, and the I value the friends and faculty here who make Evangel home.

Have a very Merry Christmas, and may your Auld Lang Syne be filled with great memories.

Blogger: Kara Brand, Psychology/English
Date: 12/14/2009

Hey all! Christmas is just around the corner, and I can’t believe that I’ve almost completed my third semester at Evangel University! At the beginning of this semester, CROSSWALK adopted a new ministry — Operation Christmas Child. At the beginning of November, we decked the halls with OCC posters and set up a competition among all the floors on campus.

Over the next few weeks, the floors busied themselves making goals and wrapping boxes, each working to make a difference in the lives of children all over the world.

On November 20, all the floors and commuters brought their boxes to an OCC Prayer Service. About 30 minutes before the service, wrapped boxes began trickling into the Joust West Conference Room. Every few minutes a few brought a few more boxes. The closer we got to the start of the service, the more people and boxes arrived. (One thing you will learn as a college student is that you will develop a keen sense of timing. You will soon be able to get to your destination at the exact minute it starts. Early is not in the college student’s vocabulary!) With that said, at 10:02 a rush of people began pouring into the room all laden with gift-filled boxes.

We were all encouraged as we watched a couple testimonial videos, each conveying a special message about Operation Christmas Child. We prayed for specific needs that OCC has, and then, at the close of the service, we all gathered around and laid hands on the boxes, praying that God would direct each one to the special child that He has already picked.

When we counted those boxes plus a few stragglers, we were blessed to count more than 140 boxes! In addition to packing boxes, many floors donated money to help with the shipping costs of the boxes. CROSSWALK donated $280, and, with all the other contributions, we collected more than $850! I am so thankful for the work that God has done through this ministry! We, as Evangel students, count our involvement with OCC this year as such a blessing. I am so excited to see what God has in store for next year’s OCC project. Thank you to all those who took part this Christmas in changing the life of a child “through the power of a simple gift.”