The summer after my senior year of high school, I remember the anxious anticipation I felt for the next few months. I was starting college! Freedom! No parents!

Life was about to begin.

Finally, I would be surrounded by minds as brilliant as mine, excel in every class, and adopt an exciting social life. The first week of freshman orientation I participated in every event, played every cheesy “get to know you” game, made a few friends, and somehow finished the dreaded summer reading assignment that my college required of every freshman. I was so ready for this.

Now, looking back on my 18-year-old self, I laugh, and realize that I did not have everything figured out. I really had no idea what I was doing, and I was not so prepared for the responsibilities that college gave me. Early on in my first semester at Elmira College, I began to hate my major. I almost failed out of school, and while the thought of taking a year off to gain some perspective on my future once seemed to be completely out of the question, that is exactly what I found myself doing as soon as I finished my second semester.

Then again, I wouldn’t trade the experiences I’ve had in the past year for anything. I was able to travel the world, work with a church in Peru, experience a completely different culture, and solidify the calling for missions that God has placed in my heart.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not telling you to withdraw from college right now and travel the world aimlessly, claiming that you’re trying to “find yourself.”

No.

What I am saying, is that it’s okay to take the plunge into college life without knowing exactly what your next step will be. Yes, it is helpful to know what you want to major in before you arrive to school, but if you don’t — it’s okay!

The most important thing I have learned over the past two years is simply to trust; trust that God knows me better than I know myself, and trust that He has a plan a million times better than any plan I could have devised on my own.

Fast forward two long years, and I am once again a newbie; only this time, I’m here at Valley Forge Christian College. Hooray!

Can you believe that the school year is over? You finished high school! Graduation parties seem like a distant memory. Before you know it, summer will be over. And then you’re off to college…

But in the meantime this summer, especially if you’re really excited about the next step in your life, having patience may be difficult.

We all have a tricky relationship with patience. Many people will advise us that all good things come to those who wait. Yet, I still haven’t met anyone who likes waiting in traffic. And no one says, “I love the DMV, because there is nothing like a good line of people.” Sometimes having patience does not always seem like all it’s cracked up to be.

On the album The First Joke and Other Matters, artist Jeff Martin wrote a song called “In This Story.”  The chorus of the song goes like this: “Patience now, patience now, you don’t have to have it all figured out…” Most of us have a way of jumping ahead of ourselves. Instead of taking time to see the joy of right now, we wrap ourselves up with the next chapter.  Slowly, we miss out on the gift of the present.

Why is this important to you? In a few short months, some of you will make the trek to Valley Forge Christian College. But take this time to really enjoy where God has you right now. Don’t rush the next few months. It’s not easy to have patience,  especially when we can see the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel.

So, take this time to really prepare your heart for what God could do on campus this fall. Ask for wisdom from people who succeeded in college. Pray for openness of your mind and heart to see what God will teach you. Use the time God has given you right now to do something great.

“Patience Now.” How are you using the summer before you come to college? For those of you have already gone to college, how do you wish you had prepared for your first semester?

What did you do for the 4th of July? Did you see fireworks? What about a barbecue with your family? This weekend I traveled back home to Binghamton for an Englert family reunion. During the weekend my parents took care of many of the details, from creating the itinerary, to preparing the food and picking up any missing items.

Most of the time we take for granted the people closest to us, especially our parents or people who have stepped into that role. So, as you get ready for the summer, take the following things my parents have taught me as advice for your own life.

1. Stay committed to what is important.

On June 26th, my parents celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary. During that time they have stayed at the same church and in the same jobs. I will always remember them making it to all of my siblings’ and my soccer, basketball, and lacrosse games. Looking back, I know now that their commitment to us cost them time, money and energy. But I never remember them complaining. I’ve learned from my parents that it’s easy to flake out after a while, but the people who make the most difference to others know how to finish what they started.

2. Think of others before yourself.

I think my Mom has made enough brownies and cookies to cover the whole United States. My Dad has changed enough oil and washed so many cars that NASCAR should consider his résumé. These are small things that my parents took time out of their schedules to do for all of us. This does not take into consideration all of the times they called or wrote notes of encouragement. We can all become consumed with our own needs and problems, but opening our eyes to people around us means seeing others the way Jesus does so that we can take time to love and bless them.

3. Take Out the Trash.

This might have been the chore I struggled with the most, but it makes all the difference in the world.

4. God Takes Care of His Kids.

There were times growing up when our dryer broke, the family station wagon’s transmission went, or any variety of difficult setbacks happened. Whenever things like this occurred, both of my parents took time to remind us that God would take care of us. At one point, my dad worked two jobs to send my sister and me to a Christian school. They always gave the most that they could while reminding us that God always takes care of us. God answered our prayers countless times through other people or through small miracles. My parents taught us how to live by continually trusting our heavenly Father.

5. “The people who know you the best should believe in you the most.”

This is actually a quote by Dr. H. Robert Rhoden, but this lesson comes to life when I watch my parents. Whenever my parents talk about my sister, brother, or me, we can see how much they believe in us. They have spent countless hours in prayer for us. Let this lesson be a question to you: Do the people that know you the best believe in you the most?

As you get ready to come to college, think of the lessons your parents have taught you. What have you learned from them? Your parents will always be your parents. Take time to honor them during this season.

Can you believe that in a short while you will graduate from high school? Many of you may have already gone on your senior class trips, and your last papers, tests, and finals are the only things that separate you from your diploma. Summer is approaching soon!

Graduation will come before you know it. Here are a couple of things to get ready before your graduation party…

1. Confirm that your high school is sending your final transcripts to VFCC.

You may be wondering, “Didn’t I already send in my transcripts?” You may have sent in your high school transcripts in the beginning of your senior year, but your final high school transcripts actually show your final grades and confirm that you have graduated. These final transcripts are mandatory for you to have before you come to college. Sometimes high schools close during the summer, so it is extremely important that you confirm with your guidance office that they will send the final transcripts.

2. Keep in touch with your VFCC admissions counselor.

Regularly check your emails, voice mails, and snail mail. Information about your class schedules, housing, and registration will come within the next two months. You may also have outstanding paperwork that you need to complete for registration. Check with your admissions counselor to see where you are in the process.

3. Join the VFCC Class of 2015 group on Facebook.

Want to meet your future classmates? There are already a bunch of them talking about VFCC even before they get on campus. Join the group and the ongoing conversation. Every so often, important pieces of information are posted in this group, so make sure you are a part of it!

David Akers, kicker for the Philadelphia Eagles came to meet with Tim and me today. Well, maybe he just came to speak in Chapel, but we got to hang out with him for about 30 seconds to snap this picture.

“Where are you going to college?” I’m sure you have been asked that question a dozens times. You might respond with your top three choices, but immediately someone will give you the reasons why you should or should not go to a certain school.

This decision is one of the first of many “adult” decisions you will make, and you will need to think through a lot of important questions. Will you connect with the professors and students on campus? Will the campus atmosphere fit your personality? Does this four-year investment make sense at this institution? Is the drive too far or close to home? Besides these questions, there are so many other factors upon which to base your decision.

No one can argue against the fact that there can be a lot of pressure to choose the right college. Everyone has an opinion of where you should go. Well-meaning alumni, parents, siblings, teachers, admissions representatives and pastors will promote their schools and experiences. They can provide you with helpful advice and point you in the right direction to help you think through your motives for choosing a school. But remember this: You are not them.

Rev. Ronald Piedmonte, my pastor from Binghamton, NY, used to tell me: “If you’re trying to follow God’s will, you’ll never miss it.” All throughout your life you will have to make tough decisions. Following God’s lead in your life is the single most important factor in choosing the right direction. You may feel worried or scared about making the wrong choice, but God is more than able to lead you exactly where you need to go (I Thessalonians 5:24). Embrace the decision of where to attend college, because, hopefully, it will be the first of many decisions that lead you to experience the faithfulness of God in your life.

What are you doing Friday night? This Friday, April 1, VFCC’s own Eric Lee Burkert will be featured at Steel City Café in Phoenixville, PA. Eric will be releasing his newest album, Ode to Aliyah Rivers. For the past week there has been a buzz on campus about this show because of the indie folk sound of his single “But By Now.”  Many of the talented musicians and vocalists from Burkert’s album are also from VFCC.

For more information about Burkert and his new album, check out:

• Eric Lee Burkert’s Facebook Fan Page
• Eric Lee Burkert’s Single “But By Now”
• Ode to Aliyah Rivers Album Release Show

Hope to see you there!

Today you are going to meet Melody Keinath: photographer, filmmaker and Digital Media extraordinaire. Melody grew up, for the most part, in Wayne, NJ, but spent time in Lancaster, PA and in Willard, MO as well. You can most likely find her on campus shooting photos, editing a video, or singing on one of the worship teams. Besides being an artist, this past week Melody went to Washington D.C. with seven other students for the Valley Forge Christian College to attend the Innovative Leadership Experience, which involved meeting with political, church and business leaders. I had a chance to talk with Melody about her experience as a Digital Media major, her Washington D.C. trip, and about being a student at VFCC.

1.  How did you end up at VFCC?

I was praying about college and what I was supposed to do with my life – which was an extremely soul-searching time – and I knew that God was gently leading me to VFCC. He told me not to look too far into the future, but to just look at the first semester. I wasn’t sure what to major in, but during the summer after my first semester the Digital Media program was announce. At that moment I knew that it was something that would encompass the things that I wanted to learn about and develop in me the most. I had worried that there wasn’t a major or area of study anywhere that would allow me to study all the things that I wanted to, but with this major I could. Looking back, I can see that God guided my every step.

2. Why did you choose Digital Media as a major?

I love all things art. I also love all things music. With the Digital Media degree, I get to apply my artistic and musical abilities to technology and a field of study that is ever-expanding in the world.

3. You have exceptional Flickr and Vimeo sites. What has been your inspiration?

I love that almost anything can inspire. Some of my work has been inspired by the work of other artists, such as Vivian Maier, Robert Doisneau, and Cliff Cordes. I have also been inspired by things I’ve read, by people and how I interact with them, and by different concepts that shape the way I view and live life. Most of all, my work has been inspired by my relationship with God. No concept is more real than relationships, and I want my work to reflect a deeper connection than what is merely seen on the outside.

4. What is your favorite thing you have ever bought from IKEA?

Probably my bookshelves – they are HUGE and awesome. Or my dresser, which is also huge and awesome.

5. What was the last song you played on your iPod?

Either the Hillsong United’s Aftermath album or Jónsi’s Go album. I just listen to the whole albums, so it depends on which song I leave off when I get out of my car.

6. Which one: a camera or camcorder?

That’s too hard of a question, but I’ll go with a camera.

7. What is one of your favorite memories off campus?

One night a friend and I pushed a bakery truck out of the snow in the back of Artisan’s, a local coffee shop in Phoenixville. We felt pretty beastly and it was definitely one of my favorite things I’ve done off campus.

8. What event has impacted you the most at VFCC?

The Innovative Leadership Experience. On this trip, I learned so much about life and leadership in such a short amount of time. We spoke with so many people – leaders of different ministries and positions – who showed us that God wants to reach EVERY person, from the richest to the poorest, and that the common ground is Jesus Christ. Some memories that I took away from the trip were the stories from people who spoke about how each step of their life prepared them for the purpose and plan that God had for them. The avenues in which they do ministry are incredibly unique, and it inspired me to know that there are ways of “doing church” that no one has ever thought of! The whole experience was a sequence of meeting incredible leaders and sharing life with them for a little while.

9. Which person has affected you the most at VFCC?

Dr. Bob Rhoden, who led the Innovative Leadership Experience. I learned more in the short times that we spent with him on the Innovative Leadership Experience than I have in some entire years or experiences in my life. He gave me, and the other students on the Innovative Leadership Experience, the opportunity to dream bigger – and he truly believed in us. He kept reminding us: “Your potential is my mission.”

10. Give one piece of advice for future VFCC students.

Take life one step at a time. This has been a huge theme in my life because I tend to want to rush ahead of myself, but then I get overwhelmed! God knows it all, and He is the one who orchestrates life, so it is better to trust Him. I’ve learned to never despise the small steps in life either, because everything is preparation for the future and a part of the purpose God has for my life. It’s all about Proverbs 16:9: “In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.”

Yesterday, as I sat in my office, I thought, “What books would have been helpful for me to read before attending college?” One of my major regrets is not adequately preparing my mind for those four important years. Sure, I graduated from high school, filled out all the college registration paperwork, hung out with all my friends from New York before I left for Pennsylvania, and packed all my belongings in a red 1994 Pontiac Sunbird. But I wish I spent more time preparing my heart and mind for this monumental change in my life. So, looking back, I would recommend these books to help you prepare for college:

1. Anonymous by Alicia Britt Chloe

I can remember asking myself, “What am I doing with my life right now?” I will live in a dorm room, spend endless hours in the library, experience hundreds of chapels, and eat in the cafeteria more times than I can count. At times, college can feel monotonous and you may want to focus on getting to the next chapter. Alicia Britt Chloe’s book Anonymous reflects on Jesus’ hidden years before ministry and writes about how those years relate to our lives. Hidden years are those times when God works, often unnoticed on our lives . Every once in a while we need to take a step back during our four year journey and see how God is preparing us, while finding joy in where God has us right now. I heard about this book for the first time from President Meyer, who referenced it in chapel my freshman year. I wish I would have read it earlier.

2. Humility by C.J. Mahaney

No one starts studying a degree to become mediocre. Instilled in all of us is a desire to achieve true greatness. Humility by C.J. Mahaney was brought to my attention at a time when God was challenging me to see myself how He saw me. All of us deal with criticism from others, our own pride, and our hope to leave a mark of greatness in the world. This 160 page book packs powerful insights on how God calls us to live life. We all need reminders as to who we are in Christ and what He has done in our lives. Let Humility help re-define your idea of greatness.

3. Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell.

This is one of the most fascinating books I have ever read. Malcolm Gladwell discusses the composition of high achievers. I can still remember reading that a person cannot be an expert in something until he or she has spent over 10,000 hours in that field. Outliers will change the way you think about homework, practicing instruments, editing a video in Final Cut Pro, or prepare a lesson or sermon.

What have you been reading to prepare for college? Feel free to leave your thoughts and ideas in the comment section below.

How do you know spring is coming on VFCC’s campus? Frisbees! The day before spring break, some students invited me to play ultimate frisbee. Let’s just say, they were really good.  As you can tell, I played in my office clothes. We all had a blast. Maybe someday this could be you on campus:

The long awaited second segment of Acing Campus Visits is finally here. Now that you have prepared your questions and scheduled your visits, here are some things to keep in mind while on campus.

1. Take Pictures.

Bring a camera or use your cell phone to capture pictures of the buildings, students and the vibe of the campus. Most of us are apt to forget the details about each place, especially if we visit multiple campuses. You could even post your pictures on Facebook for others to see.

2. Be yourself as you engage in conversation.

Campus visits can be overwhelming with the amount of people you meet. Some of you may be thrilled at the opportunity to meet new people, while some of you may be more reserved. As an Admissions Counselor, I thoroughly enjoy talking with potential students. Our hope at Valley Forge Christian College is that we can create a comfortable atmosphere so that you can share with us what you are really passionate about. In a word: relax. While you interact with people, realize that they want to meet YOU! Don’t let the newness of the situation change who you are.

3. Make time to look around off campus.

Where’s the nearest Starbucks? How far is the grocery store? Target? Walmart? You can answer these questions by taking time before or after your campus visit to explore the area. If you have driven a considerable distance to come to the campus, take time to see the sites. VFCC is nestled right between beautiful Lancaster and bustling Philadelphia. The point: Enjoy the entire process of visiting colleges and learn the lay of the land!

4. Answer this question: Do I fit on this campus?

You will be able to better answer this question after you take the tour, attend a class, experience chapel, see the dorm rooms, meet with the Financial Aid Department, and take off-campus excursions. You may not click with every college, but there might be one or two campuses that just feel right. The goal of your visit is to see yourself on campus as a student. I can remember the campus visits I took, and at the end of the day I had a peace about attending VFCC. My friends from high school felt the same way about the schools they went to. You’ll never know if you never visit. Take time to consult with your greatest Admissions Counselor, Jesus Christ.

We look forward to your visit! Share with us your campus visit experiences in the comment section below. You may even have some great tips of your own.

Photos courtesy of Stock.xchange

What do VFCC students do for Spring Break? Every year many of them go on mission trips all around the world. This year, our students are traveling to Greece, Kenya and Romania, as well as planting a church in Reading, Pennsylvania. All four mission trip teams will be blogging about their experience. Don’t take my word for it; check out what they are doing:

Thessaloniki, Greece Mission Trip

Kenya Missions Trip

Reading, PA Missions Trip

Romania Missions Trip

Here are some of the highlights from my most recent Admissions Trip. I spent time in Ocean City, MD with Pastor Mike Steinsdoerfer and his youth group. Then I went  to Buffalo, NY to meet with some future Valley Forge Christian College students and had some time to check out Ted’s Hot Dogs. To conclude the trip, I went to Syracuse, NY for the Syracuse Sectional Fine Arts. Enjoy the photos!