Although I am a sentimental person, this short article will not reflect that side of my nature; instead, what you are reading is a quick, practical assessment of my years at this institution and the ways I believe it could be bettered. It is absolutely essential that my reader understand that I believe the benefits of a Covenant education outweigh its disadvantages, yet I write not to make you smile, but to think (then act).
First, my favorite classes have been those classes for which I actually needed to read (Horne, Vos, Dennison, etc.). Getting good at reading deeply has allowed me to think deeply. The skill to read (and the insightful stuff to read) reminds me of the parable of the talents: don’t bury it. Complaining only hurts you (I know).
Second, our professors actually care about students. I did not know how lucky we are until I talked with my friends at other schools and learned about their 50-300 student classrooms. Bug your professors until they know your name and I promise your classes will get more interesting.
Third (here comes the hammer), the Student Development policy of blackmailing students into giving up other students who have broken contract is not only unbiblical, but dangerous. “Covenant Community” is only tarnished when students are explicitly pressured to tell superiors about their friends’ actions because it erodes trust between us students. I believe this harmful practice is common and continues only because students like you and I do not talk about it for fear of sounding subversive. We owe it to ourselves, and to future Scots, to put these days of coercion behind us forever.
Fourth, I believe the powers of the Student Senate should be increased and that future Scot voters should look for highly-motivated, energetic individuals who want to see meaningful change, not simply the status quo. Regular polls and “town hall” events on controversial issues should be conducted to gauge popular opinion so that the Student Senate can operate accordingly. My experience tells me there are two kinds of student government styles: the bureaucratic kind that is buried in clerical busy work (which, for example, would meet for hours to discuss bylaws) and the motivated kind consisting of passionate leaders and clear goals for the future. Friends, we directly choose which kind represent us! Wait for election season and vote with me for active leaders.
Fifth, and lastly, get down the mountain and get yourself an internship/job somewhere (work-study is not a real job, sorry). It doesn’t matter if you make nothing or $15 an hour, get experience. Don’t want a boss? I don’t blame you. Talk to Matt Schroeder about how you can run a startup, be a full-time student, Student Body VP, and have a “significant other” all at the same time. I believe the best student is both an academic and pragmatist.
Covenant College, like her students, is imperfect but equipped with a divine calling. My prayer is that our college continues to bless those who bless it and that it continues on its trajectory toward excellence and mutual respect.