I was discussing with a friend the other day about the importance and significance of, as Christians, going to a secular college, before going to a Christian one. If all we did was go to a Christian school or were homeschooled and then continued in our education by going to a Christian college, then we would be so sheltered, that by the time we got to the real world, we would still be immature and unready.
Personally, one of the biggest investments in my own education has been going to a secular college. This is somewhat because of the actual education part of it. However, it is mostly because of the life skills, practical witnessing, defending of my faith, and simply learning what the rest of the world thinks and how my faith is related to that.
I have grown in so many ways. However, if you are not solid in your faith, going into this kind of atmosphere could be very damaging. It is very easy to get into the wrong crowds, get the wrong friends, and begin doubting your faith. I am currently in a Philosophy class at my secular college and trust me when I tell you, they make everything seem like it is a direct fact, when in reality it is often circular reasoning with zero hard evidence to back up their claims.
If you are not someone who is easily swayed, then secular college for even just a year, is good. It will open up your thinking, ground you in your faith, and practically equip you to live your faith on a daily basis. I cannot speak enough to how this has formed and shaped me as a person.
Too Comfortable 
Amen! I totally agree. I’m attending community college right now, and it has truly given me a burden for my generation! Satan has already enslaved so many of our generation to a life that will DESTROY them…We must be lights for Christ in this dark world! I believe it’s important to attend Christian college too, but going to secular college can definitely be a time of strengthening for a young Christian adult!
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Amen! Oh yes, I cannot wait to go to my Christian college in one more year 🙂 Definitely! Thank you for your comment 🙂
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I know this may sound stupid and make you think I’m stupid. What the difference between a secular and Christian college? Can you please explain that to me Emma?
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Christian colleges are just that: Christian. Secular colleges are anything thing else. All of the state colleges, etc.
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Hey there! I found your blog through an article you shared on the Rebelution about prayer (which was a great article, by the way! “Petty” prayer requests are something that have long bothered me as well.).
This is so important! I very recently made my college decision to go to a state college near me even though I really loved some of the Christian colleges I visited. Most of the decision came down to finances, as I don’t want to take student loans, but a significant part of it is what you said here: It’s important to get our feet wet in the world. Not without caution, of course, but it can be such a growing experience! I’ve gotten started on that process by having a job for the past year and a half.
Another aspect related to this is whether you’d be living at the secular college or not. I felt much more comfortable making my decision knowing I would be staying at home and in my church to give me that grounding support.
Anyway, thanks for posting this! I think it’s something that needs to be said more often. 🙂
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Awh I am so glad that you found my blog! Oh, well it will be hard, but you will grow so much! I love how you said “not without caution”. That is something I want to include in my articles about secular college in the future. I think I kind of skipped over it in this one
It sounds like you made a good decision 🙂 Thank you!
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Hi! So your post was interesting to me because being a homeschooled christian I never considered going to any college but a christian one. I am currently in my third year of a small Bible college and I love it. I plan on a secular school for my master’s but, continuing my christian education was just as important to me as my regular education. I think that it is important that people consider both sides of their education before choosing. Choosing a college that is right for you is a long process. I loved the fact that you stated how you grew in your faith from this experience! Spiritual growth is the most important thing no matter what type of college you choose. I can’t wait to read more of your blog in the future!
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Hello! I was actually in the same place a few years ago 🙂 I only wanted to go to a Christian college. But then God opened different doors 🙂 It just ended up being the right thing for me. I plan on going into missions. For me, it has been practical Christian application, as well as a growing place. I have one more year there and then I will be heading to a Christian College myself 🙂 And to be honest, I would be lying not to say I CANT WAIT. It is really hard going to a liberal secular college. But I am all about being uncomfortable for the sake of the gospel 😉 Thank you! 😀
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Great points here! I definitely see how being able to defend your faith in the real world and see how others think is very important. I went to a very small charter school that wasn’t technically Christian, but almost everyone who attended was a Christian. I was sheltered from a lot, which I am thankful for but it was a little shocking when entering into ‘the real world”. You really do have to be strong enough in your faith to be prepared to fight!
I would be so honored if you would check out my blog! I just recently started it.
celinakayblog.wordpress.com
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Thank you for such a sweet comment! I will check out your blog 🙂 Thank you for stopping by!
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