Liberty University Parent Guide
Distractions, Diversions and detours
Avoiding the major pitfalls in the Freshman year
“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might...” Ecclesiastes 9:10
During the first week of my freshman year in college, I was overwhelmed. Besides my classes, there were so many different activities, events and opportunities to consider. Between ministry trips, sporting events and the Baptist Student Union, I actually felt that the only way I could balance my calendar was to avoid classes! This is a typical response to the Liberty University experience. With the myriad of activities offered here, including an ice rink, indoor soccer arena and ski lodge, it is easy to get distracted. Help your student by recommending the following steps, to avoid becoming distracted by the actual reason they came here in the first place:
1. Get Involved Judiciously:
Encourage them to pick a ministry or event, or at most two. Doing more than that can overextend them.
2. Stay Focused Intellectually:
Make sure their first priority is the classroom. Our most difficult decisions are often not between the good and bad, but between the good and best. Their most important responsibility is their studies.
3. Challenge Yourself Spiritually:
Ultimately, the LU experience is one that stretches us beyond our own limitations. We see what God can do in our lives. Challenge your student to pour their efforts into one major event or ministry that is potentially life-changing. It is better to do one thing well, than many things poorly. The administration, faculty and staff at LU are committed to working with you on your champion!
Ergun Mehmet Caner, Ph.D.
President and Dean
Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary and Graduate School
