Learning the Bible & Academics

Transcript

Let’s hear from Austin, a Biblical studies major with an occupational focus in IT from Indiana. Recognizing a need to shift traditional learning paradigms in the classroom, The Institute for G.O.D. makes it so students learn their content at their own pace, anywhere they wish, whenever they want, then show up to class to workshop what was learned. Show us what that looks like, Austin.

– Thanks, Alex. I did not think I was cut out for college. I struggled academically in high school, but after going on a mission trip to Costa Rica, I saw how much need was in the world and I realized that I wanted to help the poor, but I just didn’t know how. After I visited The Institute, I instantly felt at home. Students and faculty passionate about living out God’s Word in community, strategizing service to the poor and caring for one another, it was beautiful. Classes are super challenging but unbelievably rewarding. Over 90% of the Bible is taught in the undergrad, and scripture is the foundation for even our professional development courses. When I decided on IT as my occupational focus, it’s God’s Word that now gives my work meaning. President Garner is a visionary guy who saw the academic needs of Gen Z and then flipped the classroom. He and faculty turned classes into episodic videos and podcasts so students like myself could learn content at their own pace. I mean, I can rewind at any time and hear that new vocab again and then come to class ready to engage in an interactive workshop processing what I’ve learned. Professors host study parties, give one-on-one tutor sessions, pray with us, dream with us. They’re kindhearted, caring people who’ve helped me overcome my academic hurdles even to serve in Africa and the Philippines. From struggling academically in high school and not knowing what to do about the world’s needs, I’m a completely different person now. I now learn for others and I now know what to do to contribute to making the world a better place. Oh, and by the way, that feeling of being at home, it’s never left me. What’d you think, Alex?

– I think that’s a great feeling to have, Austin. Learning the Bible seems to have really given you confidence and direction. What a joy for your work to take on meaning and make a difference for a world in need. Thank you.