I have been involved at the St. John Paul II Newman Center for a year and a half now. I am studying Architectural Engineering at Metropolitan Community College.
During my time here I have grown in many ways! I have gotten involved in Bible Studies, Community Nights, Speaker Series, and serving at Mass (which is the best thing EVER!!!!)
How do you suspect life is different at Newman in the dorms?
Life is different at Newman than I other dorms because community life is so active and vibrant. There is not place like it. Here, there are so many people who just want to love Jesus and grow in His love and share His love and want to be saints. Other college dorms do not have the faith life like Newman does. Seems like you would have to hide your faith in regular dorms but here. We encourage and promote that you let your faith shine and bring others to Jesus.
Why did I choose to move to Newman?
I chose to move to Newman because I was going to Metro and my parents told me about the Newman Center and I just felt called to live here and grow in my faith. I definitely believe that if I did not go to Newman, my faith would either be small or non existent anymore.
How has the Newman Center changed my college experience?
Newman has changed my college experience so much. I feel just much more confident in everyday life. Feel more in charge of things in work life as well. Knowing that there is a chapel that I could go to 24/7 and lay myself down at Jesus' feet is amazing and He has really challenged me to speak out about my faith to those who are scared to or don't know Catholicism like I do.
What has changed in you during your time here? How am I different?
My faith life first thing first has changed. I go to daily adoration and mass. I feel more called to bring Jesus to others through my actions and how I live life. Letting it all point to Jesus.
When I graduate, what will I miss most about the Newman Center?
The thing I think I will miss most is the community because we are all so close and there is never a dull moment here.
Did I go on any retreats and what stood out?
I went on Heart Speaks to Heart retreat. Seek conferences and that itself was a gift. Learning a deeper way to love and experience God in a more passionate way.
My first day at the Newman Center was amazing. I got out of the car and the archbishop was there same with the two priests of Newman. Everyone was already so friendly and welcoming. I went to different stations inside of Newman, grabbing my folder with my info sheet, grabbing my room key and mailbox key. Signing up for events such as bible studies and serving at mass. Other residents would grab my belongings and bring them up to my room while I am grabbing everything else from the different tables.
The friends I have found are like no other. They only want the best for you and only want you to grow in faith and relationship with Christ. I know I can always ask questions to them about the faith and it is never an awkward subject. It is great to talk about Jesus anytime and anywhere.
Being in this community has helped me to understand and love God in a deeper way. My time here has helped me to grow into the person God has called me to be and growing every day with Him.
