A hot topic among leaders and members in the Seventh-day Adventist church and even the local Berrien Springs community is whether or not Andrews as an institution truly follows its motto to affirm faith and bring university students closer to Christ. Undeniably the interpretation of this motto and Andrews’ impact is heavily influenced by each observer’s personal values. While an outside perspective may be more objective, it is best to gain insight from those who are living and experiencing what it means to be an Andrews University student. Scholars currently roaming the halls of AU were queried to share their personal perspectives and encounters with spirituality on campus and how it has impacted their particular journey.
“Through my time here at Andrews I have experienced growth in my relationship with God. I have learned more about Him through different programs such as vespers and church services. The friends that I have made have also positively impacted my spirituality as we all share beliefs which we learn more about together here at Andrews.”
Darysa Gregory (junior, speech-language pathology)
“Being in Andrews has definitely helped me with my spiritual life. Personally, I feel more connected with God when I worship through music, which Andrews does very well. I also believe that my circle of friends that I have gained from AU has encouraged me to pursue a genuine relationship with God. Andrews has influenced my spirituality and values by how diverse it is, which allows you to meet many people with all different backgrounds. Because of this, I have been more interested in truly knowing what I believe.”
Glenielle Sta Ana (junior, speech-language pathology)
“My relationship with Christianity has declined during my time at Andrews. Christianity has many valuable aspects, but it also has many harmful ones, and I don’t think Andrews is doing enough to combat the hateful side of Christianity. I have a hard time believing in the honesty of the claim of Christian love when the policies of Andrews don’t seem to reflect that (e.g. hateful policies towards the LGBTQIA+ community). That being said, I have seen many individuals who are examples of loving Christianity while at Andrews. I believe that while I have struggled with Christianity specifically, my spirituality in general has improved because of opportunities to grow in my relationships with other students, further education, and classes like Western Heritage with professors who really encourage introspection.”
Braeden Peterson (junior, mechanical engineering)
“Throughout my 4 years here at Andrews University I can say that my experiences here have definitely impacted my life as a Christian. To start off, becoming an RA (Resident Advisor) to an SD (Student Dean) has given me the opportunity to create great friendships that have pushed me to have a better spiritual life and connection with God. With these great friends that I’ve made, I know I could count on them to join me in going to vespers and church services on Saturdays. Having young adults that share similar values also plays a big part in my spiritual growth. Since this is a God-centered University, having professors pray for their students is something that I wouldn’t have experienced in any other university. Aside from that, Andrews University has many opportunities for us students to use our talents. I was fortunate enough to be part of Proximity for a worship service and that was a great experience for me. Being given the opportunity to be a student leader for Andrews University specifically for Residence Life, made me realize that I could impact the lives of the other students through my spiritual journey. I have definitely seen growth in my spiritual life since my freshman year with many different personal experiences. But I can say that being part of Residence Life has impacted me the most in finding and creating long-lasting friendships that push me in my growth as well as helping others through their spiritual journey because of this job. God has called us to be leaders and I can certainly see in myself that growth not only as a student leader (to help others) but growth in my spiritual walk with God.” Kellyn Lopez (senior, speech-language pathology)
While this being only a handful of students willing to share their experiences, it is encouraged and advised that if questions or concerns arise about an institution’s impact on individuals, ask those within it before making hasty assumptions from the outside.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.