Making Friends & Finding Purpose
Published 11.17.2017
by Amanda Suda
Landscape/Horticulture Technology student
When anyone asks me what I like most about college, I tell them CRU. CRU has changed my life for the better, and has made my time at Penn College even more enjoyable.
My journey with CRU began in the spring of 2016 when I transferred to Penn College. I was super nervous about going, but I mustered up the courage to leave my dorm room and make my way to the first CRU meeting of the semester. Thursday night, 8 p.m., Penn’s Inn. I was late that night, but I was so glad I went. Everyone I encountered welcomed me with open arms, literally. I received so many hugs that night. It felt like home. Thursday quickly became my favorite day of the week. I had my favorite classes earlier in the day, then CRU to look forward to at the end of the day. No matter what, there was somebody to turn to for guidance and support.
I joined the Women’s Ministry Leadership Team to try and be involved as much as possible. As a team, we discuss Bible study topics and set up events for the women in CRU. There are other ways to get involved in CRU, including men’s ministry, the worship team and the outreach team. CRU does many things off campus, as well, including a fall retreat, winter conference, and spring break trip. Attending these retreats allows you to meet CRU students from other schools. This aspect builds and reinforces the concept of community.
Getting involved with student organizations is probably the best thing you could do during your time at college. You will have opportunities to meet people who share the same interests as you, as well as make more friends than you would just from your classes.
CRU has provided me with a wonderful community, and friends who I’m sure will be in my life for many years to come.
“CRU is a caring community passionate about connecting people to Jesus Christ.” This is CRU’s mission statement, and this is exactly what they did for me.