August 21, 2026: Learning from squirrels

Learning – that’s why you come to college, right? Maybe there are other reasons, too. To meet new people, to grow closer to God, to become a better citizen. But learning is part of all of these.

In the coming weeks, you will spend some time thinking about learning.

• How can I learn all of this stuff quickly and easily? (hint: you can’t. It takes time and effort)
• How can I fit it all into my schedule? (hint: use a calendar)
• How can I find help? (hint: just ask)

I have two bird feeders hanging outside of my house. In reality, they are squirrel feeders. A few weeks ago, I decided I would try to rig up something to keep out the squirrels. As you might guess, they learned quickly and found a way around my device. They just kept trying – persistence counts. But they didn’t just study from afar. They were active problem solvers. They used their ideas. They tested themselves.

Psychologists have spent a lot of time thinking about learning. They have learned: 1) you have to test yourself (ask questions – do you know the answer – if not, try again), and 2) you have to do this repeatedly, over time. Cramming is not effective for long-term learning.

I’m going to print out a list of students now, with photos, and over the next few days, test myself. I’ll cover up the names, look at the photos, and try to say the names. I’ll fail miserably the first time, do a little better the second time, and by the 10^th time hopefully know most of you.

New student orientation has been lots of fun! Now the work begins.

Some notes for the week ahead:

1. If you are new to the campus, you might hunt down your classrooms on Sunday so that you know where to go as the week moves forward. Classes in the Science Complex are either PH (Price Hall), HYH (Haughey Hall), or HH (Halenz Hall).
2. This Tuesday at 11:30am (put it in your calendar!) is our first departmental assembly. Please come to the Chobotar Commons (the Biology Lobby) and enjoy a light lunch with us, chat with a professor, meet somebody new. We’re hoping to see all of our biology majors there!
3. This Thursday at 10:30am is Fall Convocation. Everyone will come together at PMC for some pomp and circumstance and a big welcome to the new school year!

Praying that your new semester is full of fun, hard work, new friends, interesting places, and time growing in your walk with God. Don’t forget the blessing of the Sabbath!