My goodness, I can’t believe it’s time to go home. My final final has been finally finalized, and my freshman year is finished. How is that even possible? I feel as though I just moved in with my roommate, but strangely at the same time, I feel like I’ve been at Tabor forever. This college has definitely become my second home in more ways than simply having half of my things here. I have gained new friends, mentors, and opportunities to make an impact. My messy desk is a symbol of the crazy, busy, fulfilling life that I’ve lived here. In my time here, I’ve learned a few things about Tabor that I didn’t know before my move-in day:
- Not all students choose Tabor for the Christian atmosphere. Some are without Jesus and choose to break the rules or simply don’t lean into their faith. There are plenty of opportunities to show God’s love to the unreached, even on a decidedly Christian campus.
- Tabor’s admissions staff is great at placing roommates together. My roommate has been one of the biggest blessings of my year, and I’m sure that many others could say the same in their cases. In nine short months, a stranger became my best friend, which wouldn’t have been possible without the awesome staff.
- Most cafeteria meals are pretty good, and there are many options! Different options are available specific days, such as the pancake bar each Tuesday night. I have found that the cafeteria’s least appetizing meal is usually Sunday night. I’m sure they have their reasons, but it’s the time that many people don’t look forward to.
- The freshman-senior dynamic is very different from high school. As a freshman, I don’t feel younger or less important than the upperclassmen. I have friendships with some graduating seniors which makes me sad, but it’s been so nice to feel accepted and welcomed by them this past year.
- Hillsboro doesn’t have all of the big-city amenities, but that doesn’t mean that it can’t be fun. Between hammocking, swimming at Marion Reservoir, or playing frisbee and sand volleyball, the warm days on campus are great! Though the winter is full of lots of movies or board games with friends, which can get old after a few weeks, it’s still a very relaxing type of fun.
- No matter what major you decide on, the professors care about you. They are intentional about reaching out and connecting with their students on more than a professional level.
- It’s okay to get out of your comfort zone and make new friends, even if it’s in the middle of the year. Tabor is full of great people, and branching away from one friend group can lead to making friends in all sorts of activities! Then you have double the friends, and who doesn’t want more great friends?
- Students and advisors carry out the ministries on campus with all of the love and passion that you can imagine! There are ministries for any type of passion, and you’re encouraged to be part of any of them! I plugged into the women’s Bible study, CHUMS, and the Student Activities Board, all of which center around bringing people together and growing in Christ.
Coming in to Tabor as a freshman, I knew that God was going to do great things, but I had no clue just how many blessings he would bring. People have poured into my life in so many ways, and I am so grateful to those individuals. This college has brought me so much joy. I haven’t quite started packing because it’s tough to leave this place! My desk will soon be emptied for another person to enjoy her Tabor life. Though it’s bittersweet, this summer will be a good energizer to get me ready for the next year. New freshman faces will fill the campus, and I’m excited to get to know each one. I can’t wait to come back for the next three years of my life! But until then,
Stay Taboriffic!