Clarks Summit University Looks Forward to Upcoming Academic Year

Published August 2, 2017

Book lists have been released, stores are overflowing with dorm essentials and families are rushing to make last minute memories as the 2017-18 academic year quickly approaches. Clarks Summit University excitedly awaits the influx of new students and the return of smiling, familiar faces.

This upcoming academic year brings with it so many opportunities for CSU students, especially in terms of personal growth and development. The Office for Student Development has refined its mission for student growth, bringing a “laser-focus to discipleship opportunities through serving staff and students with an ultimate goal of individual growth and development,” said Frank Judson, Dean of Students.

Students don’t just come to CSU for an education…but for the opportunities to grow personally, spiritually and in leadership potential.

Real Students. Real Growth.

At CSU the ultimate goal is launching graduates into lives of significant service for the cause of Jesus Christ. The CSU experience is set apart from other Christ-centered universities because of the university’s emphasis on community, mentorship and discipleship.

Of CSU’s residence hall life, Business Administration senior, Ryan Buchanan, said, “I am really looking forward to dorm life—It has played a major role in why I am here at CSU. The community that has been cultivated in Loescher Hall is based upon spiritual growth and transparency, but we also have a great mixture of guys who know how to have fun.”

Emily Howell, a senior in the Specialized Ministries program, speaks of how she has personally experienced growth and development at CSU, saying, “CSU has challenged me to pursue my relationship with Jesus and embrace my identity as a daughter of the King. Being in this unique environment has taught me a lot about authentic relationships, discipleship and accountability.”

CSU faculty and staff work tirelessly to provide students with opportunities to take what they’re learning in the classroom and apply it in the real world. From internships, study abroad opportunities and connections in surrounding communities, students leave CSU with more than just head knowledge.

Elementary Education senior and Fletcher Hall Resident Assistant, Abigail Singles, is looking forward to the upcoming academic year because of the opportunity she has to go into a local school and student teach, putting what she has been learning at CSU into practice. “I’m also excited to be an RA and build into the lives of the students in my dorm. CSU has taught me what it really means to be a leader.”

Incoming!

Every August the CSU campus comes alive with excitement and anticipation as new students are brought into the CSU family. The first week is abuzz with the festivities of Welcome Weekend, the first week of classes and tower time—a CSU tradition where the incoming class raises their voices in song from Jackson Hall’s bell tower.

Though hectic, this time of transition at CSU maintains a focus on Christ while allowing students to become acclimated to this new phase of their lives. CSU focuses on setting students up for success during their time as a student and beyond.

CSU eagerly anticipates the incoming fall 2017 class. After personally meeting with the majority of incoming students, Drew Whipple, Vice President of Enrollment Management, is thrilled, not only with the increase in enrollment figures but also with what these students are bringing to CSU. “They have a track record of investing in their local churches and communities and have evidenced a desire to learn and grow in their faith. This is exactly what we look for in a CSU student, and we are excited to partner with them in this time of preparation and growth.”

Entering her 32nd year, professor Sherrie Holloway offers advice to incoming students, saying, “Pursue Jesus with all your heart. Figure out how to be intentional—with the friends you choose, with how you play (if you’re an athlete), when choosing a mentor and with how you perform in whatever you do—be intentional with how you live out the gospel in your everyday rhythm.”

Everyone here at CSU looks forward to this new academic year filled with possibilities!

-Jessica Eddy, junior in the Communications-Writing program