Why We Are Going to College
This coming Sunday morning, Brett and I will board a plane for Virginia. Destination? Patrick Henry College. Classes don’t start till August 25th, but we’ll be arriving early for freshman orientation. College will be new, hard, and good. We’re excited.
What Does This Mean?
What does this mean for the Rebelution? Only good things. First off, the conferences, website, and blog will continue. In fact, our blogging should only improve as we interact with great ideas and don’t travel so much! And, we’re excited to live this message out on the college campus — and share our struggles along the way.
Not only that, but we have some of other plans for the upcoming year, including a revamp of the website and an exciting new event — more on those later. We can’t wait to see what God is up to, not just with the Rebelution, but with all of you.
Looking back at the past year (our “gap” year between high school and college) we are blown away at how far God has brought the Rebelution. Whether its the book, the conference tour, or the DVD, God is positioning this message to continue to spread beyond what we could ever have imagined.
Why College? Why Now?
So why college? Wouldn’t it be better to just focus on these great projects? Wouldn’t it be more rebelutionary to do without four more years of school? The answer goes to the heart of what the Rebelution is all about — and it’s not just the teen years.
Yes, the Rebelution is about teens being capable of so much more than what society expects. But more than that, it’s about understanding these years we’re living right now as the launching pad. More than just the teen years, it’s about all of life.
From what we’re hearing from twentysomethings and older adults who have read Do Hard Things, the need to reject low expectations and pursue growth doesn’t stop at age 20. What’s more, our purpose for doing hard things now isn’t to be “great teenagers” — the goal is to be prepared for a lifetime of effectiveness.
In the book we talk about men and women like George Washington, David Farragut, and Clara Barton. These heroes used their teen years to launch themselves into history-making years as adults. Our goal is never to make it into the history books, but none of us should want to be remembered — whether by many or by few — for what we did as teens. This is where it all starts, but not where it ends.
Our Personal Launch
For Brett and me, we believe that college is a crucial part of our personal launch and preparation. The quote we have found that best sums up the reason for our decision is found, interestingly enough, in Dostoevsky’s novel The Brothers Karamazov:
[Aloysha] was to some extent a youth of our last epoch — that is, honest in nature, desiring the truth, seeking for it and believing in it, and seeking to serve it at once with all the strength of his soul, seeking for immediate action, and ready to sacrifice everything, life itself, for it. Though these young men unhappily fail to understand that the sacrifice of life is, in many cases, the easiest of all sacrifices, and that to sacrifice, for instance, five or six years of their seething youth to hard and tedious study, if only to multiply tenfold their powers of serving the truth and the cause they have set before them as their goal, such a sacrifice is utterly beyond the strength of many of them.
Make sure you really read that quote. If you just skimmed over it, I want you to stop, go back, and take it in. Even in a brief character description, Dostoevsky makes a powerful and important point about taking the time for strict training.
Looking long term, Brett and I know that we can greatly improve our effectiveness by making time for focused study. This is right in line with the counsel we have received from the godly men and women God has placed in our lives.
We chose Patrick Henry College — a small school with a big vision — because of its commitment to excellence and cultural impact for the glory of God. It emphasizes not just character, not just competence, but both together — merging a classical liberal arts education with real-world apprenticeships.
We’re also excited about the caliber of the students. PHC attracts some of the most dedicated young people in the country in areas ranging from literature, history, and journalism to law, politics, and strategic intelligence — and has a growing culture of filmmaking. Our hope is that it will help to launch many rebelutionaries.
Following God’s Call, College or Not
Brett and I want to make it clear that we’re not saying that all rebelutionaries must (or even should) go to college. In fact, most young people who do go are just doing it because “that’s what you do after high school.” They don’t have a clear purpose, they’re not focused, and they end up wasting a lot of time and money.
While we are called to “strict training,” it will look different for each person. College can be very good or very bad. It can give you a lot more depth. It can greatly increase your effectiveness. It can help you establish lifelong relationships and connections. It can open doors that might otherwise be shut.
But college can also distract, corrupt, and hijack you. The decision requires us to diligently seek God’s direction, as well as an abundance of godly counsel. To “do hard things” means to follow His call, wherever it leads: college or not.
A New Chapter… For All of Us
For Brett and me, God’s call takes us across the country — and to a very different life than the one we’ve lived the past three years. We expect to be challenged and stretched. We covet your prayers for us and the Rebelution. It’s a new chapter in a great story by an amazing Author — and all of you are part of it.
So we want to hear from you. What does your next year look like? Whether you’re in high school (or middle school) or graduated, whether your “strict training” looks like college or something entirely different, let us know where God is taking you.
Soli Deo Gloria!
August 14th, 2008 at 1:10 pm
How exciting! Thank you for that encouraging post!
August 14th, 2008 at 1:27 pm
I’m off to college too… on Tuesday. I’m excited about it, a chance to study philosophy, Hebrew, and Greek (and some other things). It may be preparation for missions (Bible translation?? That’s a very real possibility), and who knows, it may be preparation for something else entirely. My guess is that it’s going to be exciting and challenging, fun and grueling… a Hard thing, but good. And preparation for however God chooses to send me.
I hope that you guys have a wonderful year at school.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
Guys, this is so exciting. This is your next big step in playing out God’s plan for you as Godly men, possible leaders in society and hopefully, leaders in your own families. What a blessing to be going together, to continue keeping the other accountable before God. Know that in this coming year, you both will be in our thoughts and prayers.
On another note, with PHC being so far away from Portland, how often do you plan on coming home and visiting? Ironic as it may seem, the year you leave Portland, I have multiple opportunities of living with family and friends there.
God’s protection and speed in your travel. We are so proud of you both.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
Hmm. Does the “exciting new event” have anything to do with this: “A brief description of the event would be 3 days, 50 speakers, 18 minutes each to give the talk of their lives to 500 of the most dedicated young people in the country. Each talk would be professionally captured on video, uploaded to a state-of-the art website, and made available for free downloading” (Crosswalk interview)?
Because if it does, that sounds really, really, awesome. =P
I’m also very relieved to hear that you’re still doing the conferences; I was kind of worried that you guys wouldn’t with college and everything. Phew!
As for my next year, it definitely promises to be difficult; junior year in high school is a crucial one, and more APs in one year than I’ve ever done before, with another mathematics course through the state university (eek!)
Good luck in college!
August 14th, 2008 at 1:41 pm
Thank you for that timely update. I’ve started to wonder recently what direction the Rebelution will take as you go to college. Or, what happens way down the road when you guys are in your thirties and teens are still needing to hear the message of the Rebelution as much as ever(if not more)? I need to remember as I start to worry about such things that God is in control and He has an awesome plan. He hasn’t started this movement just to have it die down when the leaders grow older. I pray that the Rebelution lives on far past the time that this generation leaves young adulthood. God is sovereign!
August 14th, 2008 at 1:41 pm
For me, this next year is my first in between year. After High school but before college. Either next year or the next (waiting see where God leads…) I hope to get a teachers certificate. With legal homeschooling so iffy for the future it will come in very handy if God gives me a family of my own someday. Preparation for tomorrow…
Patrick Henry eh? A good friend of ours from church in Omaha just went there as a legal assistant for Mike Donnelly. Dan Beasley is his name, You would do well to look him up, and he could use a few friends.
We will be praying as always!
August 14th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
Hi Brett and Alex,
It sounds like you two are off to impact even more people!
That’s great. As for me, I have felt ever since the age of 9 that I am called to be a stay-at-home mom. For now I’m serving in my Father’s house, preparing and learning everything I can about running a successful, godly home. So, as soon as I graduate from highschool next spring, I can devote even more time to learning how to cook and sew and other delightful things. Most of my inspiration comes from my mom, who is a stay-at-home mom who has homeschooled me and my two younger brothers from the beginning. I’m so thankful for her and my awesome Daddy.
Anyway…blessings on you guys as you prepare for this new chapter in your lives! Keep on doing the work of the Lord!
Julia from Julia’s Journal
August 14th, 2008 at 1:55 pm
Wow, I’m so excited for you! This year I will be in my junior year in high school (I’m homeschooled) and I will also be taking two classes this year at our local college. The college classes count toward my AA and also honors in HS. I’m still praying about what degree to get, I think either elementary education or political science. My true love is politics, but I just want to glorify God no matter what I do.
Good luck in college! I will keep you both in my prayers!
August 14th, 2008 at 1:58 pm
I will be praying for ya’ll!!
August 14th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
Wow, you guys are going to Patrick Henry! Which just so happens to be one of the colleges I was considering! The post was great, and contained many well thought out ideas about college and study in general. Thank you so much for your advice and the encouragement it has been to this high school junior! Long live the Rebelution!
August 14th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
That is so exciting! I too will be praying for you both.
I am currently trying to get into a wonderful college (Grove City) for the spring semester. I am so excited about this new chapter in my life and so thrilled to see what God is doing. I took classes last fall at a community college but it wasn’t until recently (I think it was after I read your book
) that I realized how important this season of my life is! And I really felt that I needed to challenge myself (which I wasn’t doing when I went to college, by the way, I was just “cruising along” as you put it, or just doing what I needed to do to get by) and seek a Biblical education so that I might be better prepared to serve the Lord and advance His glorious kingdom in this world!
God Bless You both!
August 14th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
It seems sort of weird that this huge turning point comes right after I discovered the Rebelution. Actually, two of my best friends are going to be freshmen in college this year. While prayerfully looking for a verse to send them, I came across Numbers 6:24-26. I also included Psalm 63 in a letter to one of them.
This is going to be a crazy Sophomore year of high school for me. Because of last year’s revival, I believe God has given me a unique opportunity to reach my school for Christ to an even greater extent. It’s going to be absolutely amazing what happens this year; I already know it. This was my first day of school, and I’m already looking for ways to re-start Bible studies and stuff. I can only pray that my brothers and sisters in Christ have grown a lot spiritually over the summer. Either way, the task God has for me is going to be really tough this year, but I can do all things through Him who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13). We’ve got to remember that it’s not us doing these things, but God working through us. I no longer live, but Christ lives in me (Galatians 2:20).
You both have been given an amazing opportunity to reach a ton of people for God. I’ll be praying for you!
Colossians 1:15-20
1 Corinthians 15:56
August 14th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Wow! I am (slowly) reading the Brothers Karamazov right now and made special note of that quote when I read it a few months ago. I’m delighted to see that other people find the same significance in it that I did.
I am beginning college this fall as well. I’m studying music at a somewhat small Christian college that is working on improving their music program. Since I’ve spent a lot of time in high school improving my music abilities (I also took an extra year between high school and college in order to pursue piano, viola and composition), I’ve gained some skills that they are eager to make use of, most notably on the viola, because they are on the verge of starting an orchestra. I’m looking forward to hearing about your college experiences and the opportunities that open up to you in this new ‘epoch’ of the Rebelution!
August 14th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Wow! How exciting. I’ll be praying for you guys as your life gets busier. Thanks for so much encouragement!
-Kaylee Merwin
August 14th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
Good luck to you both as you embark on another adventure! I’ll keep you in my prayers as I get ready to go back to college myself.
August 14th, 2008 at 2:56 pm
Wow! I am very glad that you both are considering your future as adults serving Christ in your decision for college training. I myself am about to enter 11th grade though my schooling is about to take a major change just like yours. I will be entering the International Bacchalaureat program at my High School. I will be thinking of you as we both begin this new step on looking for new ways to follow Christ.
August 14th, 2008 at 2:57 pm
So do you both know Latin? Because I hear you have to know it to get into PHC. I do. Or at leat I am studying it. MEA CULPA, ‘my mistake’. I was wondering what you guys think of Ozark christian college? I would like to go there for some bible courses. But I really want to be a chef, so I will probly go to the French Culinary Institute in New York. I may end up doing both. God bless you on your trip, and on campus.
August 14th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
Wow, I’m so excited for you two! I’ll be praying!
This year I’ll be a sophomore in high school. I’m excited to be starting a foreign language (Spanish) and for the reading I’m going to be doing. I take guitar, but I’m seriously considering taking up piano again. Don’t know where that’s going to go, but it’s something I feel God wants me to do again.
Well, again, I’m really excited for you guys! God bless!
August 14th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
Glad to hear that you young men are following God’s will for your lives to the best of your ability. My brother just graduated from Patrick Henry, so I know that it’s a wonderful place.
I’m heading to Prairie Bible Institute next week to start my freshman year of college. I’ll be doing the Discover Program with them, and am really looking forward to it! The site for the Discover Program is www.prairie.edu/discover.
May the Lord bless you as you follow Him.
August 14th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
I wish you both the best as you head off for PHC. Virginia will be very different from Oregon! As for myself, I finish my senior year of high school in twelve days and then, it is off to studying more subjects….from home. I want to make the most of my years in between school and Lord willing, a family of my home. Study is just a good way to do it. So, I will work at things I have wanted to do but never had the chance too.
August 14th, 2008 at 3:22 pm
Wow, I was shocked to see that quote from The Brothers Karamazov up there! I am in the process of reading that book right now and was struck by that very same quote!
My year involves NOT going to college. When I graduated last spring I took classes at a Community College, but I was really unhappy with the quality of education I was getting. So this year I am directing my own studies into several subjects. I’m not getting college credit for what I’ll be learning, but I think the quality of my learning will be good.
Oh, I’m also running a small business, on the board of the library and I was recently elected as a PCP for the Republican party. So I will be plenty busy this year.
August 14th, 2008 at 3:55 pm
Wow! That’s really exciting! I pray you will have great success in the things you pursue.
I will be starting my Junior year of high school as a homeschooler. I’m excited to see where God is going to leave me as I get ready to start drivers ed and start applying for jobs. New doors are opening.
God’s ways are best. His plans are always better than what we could ever imagine. Keep running after Him!
August 14th, 2008 at 3:56 pm
I’m heading off on Saturday for Belhaven College to study Theater Ministry (theater arts as it relates to the church). It will be a big change, but I pray that I will learn a lot to improve my skills in theater and dance.
We heard Michael Farris speak at our homeschooling conference in the summer, and he was great! Enjoy Patrick Henry College! It sounds really neat. I’ll be praying for you as you take a new step.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
It Sounds a pretty good idea!
I´m about to finish college. Even though I am 19, I think God has called me to do Hard and great things for His glory. I am planning to attend next year to the Master´s college at california. Anyhow, I will follow God´s perfect plan in this.
Hope to see you next year at the “exciting new event”
Please, leave a message on my blog. gustad-y-ved.blogspot.com (It´s in spanish…so don´t try to understand) hehe it means “taste and see”
God bless!
Giancarlo Montemayor
Monterrey, Mexico
August 14th, 2008 at 4:19 pm
Great article. I thought the best part was where you said we shouldn’t just go to college because “that’s just what you do after HS.” It’s a big decision which should take a lot of prayer and thought.
But one minor critique if I may: its not huge but its one of my pet peeves… when you said… “we covet your prayers” I cringed… not because I don’t want to pray for you… of course I will. But I’d rather just hear… hey guys… we’d really appreciate it if you’d be praying for us right now… or something like that. Not to be picky… but you’re not actually “coveting” our prayers are you? And I’ve found from personal experience that when Christians talk like that it has a tendency to turn people off.
So not to make a mountain out of a molehill… but I couldn’t resist.
God bless you guys.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:46 pm
Awesome! God Bless you guys!
August 14th, 2008 at 4:58 pm
I enjoyed reading your article, it was really encouraging. I also liked the quote–it really shows why it’s often wise to go to college. I’m looking forward to hearing about the things that God will be teaching you guys during your time at PHC! From what you have said, it sounds like a great school! I’ll be praying for you too, as you will be juggling multiple responsibilities while trying to settle into college life.
As for me–I’ll be heading to Cedarville…tomorrow! I’m looking forward to learning new things both from my professors, and from my Savior. I can’t wait to start this new journey! =D
August 14th, 2008 at 5:23 pm
Wow - I do like that Dostoyevsky quote.
It is quite a good encouragement as I steam towards finishing my last year of high-school. Only 4 months to go!
August 14th, 2008 at 5:25 pm
Hey, I was just reading up on Patrick Henry College (i.e. newsletters, website, student handbook, archived news articles) because I was interested in what conservatives are attempting to do to overthrow our present government (I’m in a weird mood) and I began wondering about the “why” for you two. I thought, ‘I can see some reasons why they chose this college, but I’d love to sit down with them and hear what they have to say about why they are going to college, what their plans are after, etc.’
Alex, how is it that you always seem to know what I’m thinking? It’s a little weird.
Anyway, regarding the quote (which I read through 3 times): it makes its point and I understand exactly what it’s saying, but I’ve seen a few examples of people — specifically in politics and filmmaking — who have put the training and the ten-fold ability of success before the truth after a time. Instead of dying daily for the truth, as I believe this quote intends to indicate, they (under guise of that) die daily to the truth believing that they will come alive again and die for it once they reach the top. And it never works. By the time they reach the top, they can no longer recognize truth nor remember their once true purpose for setting out to climb. All this to say: you’ll be careful and keep dying FOR the truth, right? I know it may not seem like a danger going into a Christian school, but as I’ve seen it happen with missionaries and others attending Bible college I know how the lines can get blurred ESPECIALLY when you most think that they won’t. Don’t neglect the small, hard, daily sacrifices of strict training as that is what prepares you for the big, excruciating, life-consuming ones; but don’t hesitate to take up your cross and hang passionately if God calls on you to step out from the small and “die” bigger before you feel ready to.
Well, I guess that’s my “big sister” talk for you guys going off to college. =)
So, as far a my strict training goes for the next year….. It looks like continuing to study French, learning to translate books in Spanish, maybe beginning Italian (or Hebrew), learning to quilt like a pro, looking into learning some graphic design, working on calligraphy and re-learning watercolors (which I’m apprehensive about), getting back into playing piano (hopefully), writing (lots of writing), and HOPEFULLY moving up to Canada and getting a publishing business started and some books printing so that I can begin focusing on a few screenplays which I’ve been very excited about for a few years and keep contributing to but haven’t yet had the opportunity to effectively commit my time to.
August 14th, 2008 at 5:49 pm
Welcome to being a college student! God bless you as you start this next chapter in your life. Hopefully at a college like PHC you’ll run into fewer typical college-related temptations and struggles, but no matter what you encounter stand strong–thanks for being such an encouragement to so many people in our generation. As a college student I can tell you how desperate college campuses are for dedicated Christians to be in their midst (whether they realize they need it or not).
August 14th, 2008 at 6:15 pm
I am excited to hear more about that ‘exciting new event!’ I hope you impact even more people in college than you did before.
Last year (my freshman year of highschool), we started a new Christian high school Technically, it’s a homeschool co-op. I loved last year, but this year will be a little different. For one, we will have new people (our school population is now 13), and for another, my two best friends are moving. This means I will have to reach out to other friends, which I’m horrible at. I might feel a little left out and lonely at times this year. However, this may be a good chance to grow closer to God.
A good change; last year’s English course had me write about three good essays. This year, I’ll be doing one a week. I want to become a published author, so I am really looking forward to this.
August 14th, 2008 at 6:23 pm
That’s great you guys! I’ll be praying!
This year is my last year of middle school, the 8th grade, though I’m doing alot of high-school level courses, including Biology, Spanish, and Algebra 1, along with some grade-level courses as well. For me, this is a ton more than what I’m used to, and sometimes it feels like a big water bucket dumped on my head. My parents are a wonderful encouragement and consistently point me towards God, and assure me they wouldn’t give me more than I can handle. It’s going to be a great adventure, and in a way I’m excited about the increased challenge.
August 14th, 2008 at 6:29 pm
I am just now entering my sophomore year in High School and I plan to go to college when I graduate and get a music degree.
~Zoe
August 14th, 2008 at 6:47 pm
Wow, congragulations! I was wondering why you had chosen Patrick Henry and also what you planned to do when you WERENT TEENAGERS anymore:-) What are you majoring and minoring in? Sorry if you already clarified that, I might have missed it.
Well, I am going to be a sophmore in highschool this year. I use Christian Liberty Academy cirriculum, and one of their elective courses was actually a government study written by the president of Patrick Henry college. I decided to do it because I am exploring the possibilities of majoring in something to do with debate or law. I am as of now attending a Communicators for Christ conference, and will be joining one of their clubs and chapters, so that will also keep me busy for this next school year.
I am very interested in attending Patrick Henry when I am old enough. I have a list of 3 colleges: Patrick Henry, Bob Jones University, and Cedarville in Ohio. Patrick Henry is defiently top of the list, and I am hoping to either major or minor in their upcoming, brand new music program. I have been playing piano for about 9 years now and violin for 3, so Music is a big part of my life, but now I am interested in also getting pretty involved with Speech and Debate, so we will see how that turns out.
Well ENOUGH about me. I hope you guys have a safe flight and will pray for you both.
My blog addresses are: The Life of a Christian Musician-www.homeschoolblogger.com/christianmusician1
Discussions with a Purpose- www.homeschoolblogger.com/InspiredDiscussions
Group blog- teenperspectives@blogspot.com
God bless,
Jordan Bethany Amedick
August 14th, 2008 at 6:54 pm
Thank you so much for encouraging us to follow God’s calling for our lives, whether that includes college or not. I have always loved Patrick Henry and considered it my number one college choice, but God has other plans for me. My sisters and I are preparing to sign a contract with a major recording label - launching our debut CD with the songs God has laid on our hearts to write. I am also trying to complete my hard thing of finishing the books I am currently writing. Because of this and from the wise counsel we have received from parents and other sources, we have come to the conclusion that now is not the best time for me to pursue a college education. This was very hard for me to accept at first, but I have yielded my disappointment to God and look forward with a willing heart to what He has planned for my future.
Thanks to the flexibility of PHC, I may be able to enroll in their Campus & Home distance learning program this upcoming term and pursue my higher education from home, right alongside of the other things I will be working on. This follows my heart’s desire to be at home with my family most of the time and yet continue my studies as well.
For me, I must remember that college is not everything - simply something that God chooses to use in certain people’s lives for His own purposes. I must remember to embrace everything He chooses to give me with a full heart - no matter what it is.
August 14th, 2008 at 7:05 pm
Good luck guys! I’m not too good with words, but I’d like to say that I’ve had a fun time reading all your posts over the last few months, I haven’t ever really commented, but I’ll make sure that I do more often now! Anyways, you guys really encourage me with the things you write. Thanks!
August 14th, 2008 at 7:19 pm
Patrick Henry is definitely the college to go to as far as a commitment to excellence is concerned. My best friend attends the college and is in her last year, and she has done very well there.
I will be going into my second year in college this fall. I’ll have to be very determined and focused because I’m taking all sciences this year- challenging ones! It will be good practice for me to do hard things.
Wishing and praying that you both have a great semester at PHC!
August 14th, 2008 at 7:51 pm
Alex and Brett,
It is a tremendous freedom to lose all sense of self and be entirely swept up in the pursuit of God! There is a great peace and comfort that comes with following and walking in the will of the Father. In two days, I will be leaving for college. A college that is more than 24 hours away from my home. It is with excitement that I prepare for this new chapter in God’s Story, for there is no self pity in following hard after the will of the Father. However, my excitement is not limited merely to the trivial aspects of college life, but also spans to those things which are challenging and difficult. I am eager for the “strict preparation”, because I know that this season of life is not the end, but merely a means to the end. My heart’s desire is to serve the Lord in full time missions, and so as I contemplate the challenges and hard tasks that will come my way this year, I can look forward to them knowing that the pursuit is much greater than any earthly pleasure or reward. These are hard days ahead, but I am running towards them as David did Goliath, praying that God might make this season of training fruitful for the kingdom! May we not waste this season of life, but use it as God would have us to! I will be praying for each of you this year as you embark upon this Everest!
Two last thoughts for you to meditate on:
Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judment, and rightusness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD. Jeremiah 9: 23-24
The greater danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it.
Michelangelo
August 14th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
Wow, congrats on going to collage!
I will be going into high school (I am going to be a freshman.) this year, as a homeschooler. I am scared and excited to find out what the Lord has in store for me! I also am starting to drive and hopefully get a job. I have realized that once you hit your high school years, or teen years, that things really get going! You have more freedom, your life can be used for more new and exciting things…. I am very excited to see how the Lord will use me….VERY! 
August 14th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
Wow, congrats on going to college!
I will be going into high school (I am going to be a freshman.) this year, as a homeschooler. I am scared and excited to find out what the Lord has in store for me! I also am starting to drive and hopefully get a job. I have realized that once you hit your high school years, or teen years, that things really get going! You have more freedom, your life can be used for more new and exciting things…. I am very excited to see how the Lord will use me….VERY! 
August 14th, 2008 at 8:29 pm
Hey Brett and Alex! I will be working towards a Certificate in American Sign Language Interpreting and possibly an A.A. in music…both happen to be offered at the local junior college, only 8-15 minutes away. Spicy!
After that, I may pursue a degree through online studies, but the Jury (God) is still out on that one. Really, I would like to be a Mom more than an interpreter or professional musician, so I don’t think I’ll be doing much college education after I finish at the jc. That’s me. Sign Language and music have been hobbies of mine for almost my entire life…I’ve always wanted to learn ASL to the point of fluency, as I have a heart for the deaf community, and music…can’t live without it! 
I’m hoping to be able to use ASL in ministry situations at a local church or simply one-on-one with people I meet.
Thank you for your encouraging words under the heading “Following God’s Call, College or Not.” When my relatives found out what I’ll be doing and what I would eventually like to be (a Mom), some of them showed their disapproval quite clearly. I can’t tell you how encouraging it is to hear what you said…especially coming from young teen guys. That’s a rare pleasure!
May God bless you both and your time at Patrick Henry College! May He use you both, respectively, to be an encouraging and uplifting friend to all you come in contact with. I’ll be praying for you in this new adventure in life. PHC is definitely a GREAT school to go to! As you said…you’ve got a school and people with vision and it doesn’t get better than that! I’m eager to see the neat changes take place.
I know that God will use you both in wonderful and various ways throughout your time there for His glory. Your family will sure miss you…I’m sure! My brother left for school 2,000 miles away this morning and I miss him already! Have a great semester!
Shalom!
August 14th, 2008 at 8:31 pm
Congrats on following where God wants you to be….
I graduated this May, however, I’m going to be taking a break this next semester (somewhat….allow me to explain)….Not too long ago, I found out about The Center for Creative Media down in a Texas (www.centerforcreativemedia.com), and as I am interested in using my gifts in film for the Glory of my Creator, I sent in my application….But maybe a bit too late, at least for this year…..
A big reason, that I’m staying home this year, however, relates to me preparing to go out into the world. When I mean preparing, I mean like learning how to do day-to-day basic things such as managing finances and buying food…Things that I should’ve taken seriously before I graduated…..Finances are also another reason…But I’m planning on taking some more classes or self-taught lessons relating to the profession I am aspiring towards as well as working on some projects that relate to it…..
I must say, It’s odd seeing half of my friends who have graduated start or go back to college and then the other half start their senior year of High school…..But I know that I am where God wants me to be for the time being.
August 14th, 2008 at 8:36 pm
Hey guys! It is exciting to hear that your off to college and beinfluential to the lives of others…It was a inspiring article you posted. And i tried reading everyone’s comment but it’s too much!
As for my next year, I will be a Sophmore in High School…an pretty excited about it. I am doing hard things by taking all honors and 2 AP classes! Not many of my friends decided to do something like this. I have also started preparing for college, I am praying to God, first of all to send me to the best college he has fo me, and seconde praying for the right major and career path. My love is politics, law, and international relations. Hopefully somewhere along the lines of those fields.
This year I am committed to doing hard things…and not slack off. I wont run away, because God has given me the courage to stand up for what I believe. I want to live that life that God has called me to live, and I want to be an example of a revolutionary at my school.
Thanks…and I have enjoyed coming to the blog website ever since I attended the Gaithersbug Conference in July It was amazing!
I truly felt the Spirit among us that day…and seeing all those young man and women come to accept Just Chirst as their Lord and savior was great.
God Bless, and you’ll do great in college. Hope to see you sometime at Cov. Life in G0Burg
August 14th, 2008 at 8:43 pm
I think it’s great that you both are going to college, and I really appreciate that Dostoevsky quote. I just graduated from college in May, and I am going to be a living at home for a few months or a year while I work full-time to make a dent in my school debt. Simple and unexciting, but where I need to be for now!
August 14th, 2008 at 9:16 pm
I hadn’t said much about this, because I did not know if you guys were going to continue the conferences because of college, but now I’d like to request that you bring the conference down here to SE USA. I live in AL, but mid-TN would be nice, too, maybe Nashville, or anywhere mid-AL, such as Birmingham or Montgomery. Even Huntsville, where I live would work, I know a lot of people that’d attend. Plus, if you have it here, I can volunteer.
.
August 14th, 2008 at 10:16 pm
God bless you guys! As i say goodbye to college in a few months, you’ll be going into it in a few weeks… May you always shine wherever you go.
Soli Deo Gloria!
August 14th, 2008 at 10:30 pm
It’s so exciting that you guys are going to college. I just finished my freshman year at California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo, and God could not have blessed it more! I’m excited to see what He has in store for me over the coming year and what He has in store for you guys as well! :]
August 14th, 2008 at 11:30 pm
Wow, that sounds like so much fun! A whole new chapter in your lives, a whole new page in your story. I’m excited for both you!
The school year in the Philippines is actually different from that in the U.S. Classes start in June, so we’re somewhere in the middle of the semester now. Where am I now? Here in my little college that is only 3 years old…but I love it so much because of what God is teaching me here. I’ve been stretched, pulled, and pushed - perhaps more than I have ever been - since I entered this college. And right now, as we are struggling with issues, battling with the enemy who doesn’t want to see us succeed, I am learning to be a Rebelutionary in different ways. To God be all the glory and honor and praise!
God bless!
August 15th, 2008 at 5:05 am
Hey Alex and Brett!
Congrats on going to college! I’m going to be a junior in highschool and I am so excited and nervous at the same time! Everyone said that their junior year was the most fun year ever but it was also their hardest year! I would love your prayers! I will definately be praying for yall! Good luck this coming school year!
Holly
August 15th, 2008 at 5:16 am
I just watched a recent, secular documentary by Bob Compton (and recommended by Bill Gates) call 2 Million Minutes. Two million minutes is how long young people everywhere in this flat world get to prepare for college, career, and life in a four year high school education. Every wasted minute detracts from the productivity of the two million minute total. The movie profiles two students (1 male and 1 female) each in China, India, and the United States. The conclusion of the movie shows that even a strong effort in doing hard things won’t always open the doors to a first place finish or achieving all of your dreams and aspirations. Jesus affirmed the doing of hard things when He directed those who heard Him to love God with all their heart, soul, and strength (Luke 10:27). This command of God had been previously recorded by Moses (Deuteronomy 6:4-5)
Students in high school all get only 2 million minutes to prepare for college, career and the global competition of the 21st century.
Most students in China and India go to school to learn math, science, engineering (and English).
Movie trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xZnSG6gg1vs
Bob Compton on the making of 2 Million Minutes:
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQJvxpVFFZA
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BuVIME4TVrY&feature=related
Part 3 – What do you know about contemporary India and China?: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3SGDsxHIoQ&feature=related
Part 4 - Pop Quiz: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sZW1SGu6NM
Bill Gates – “2 Million Minutes casts a bright spotlight on a crisis in this country”.
See also: http://www.2mminutes.com
August 15th, 2008 at 5:18 am
Hey guys!
I really enjoyed your reasoning for college and such. It’s one thing that I’ve been thinking a lot about heading into my senior year this year. I have lots of reason to go and not to go, but I’m trying to listen for God’s call in where He wants me.
Thanks for everything!
-Emily
August 15th, 2008 at 5:22 am
Alex and Brett,
May God bless you as you are now entering a new chapter in your life! I will be praying for both of you. Oh, and by the way, your blog post was so cool! I always like heaering about other colleges. I won’t be going to college for a while though, I’m only in 8th grade!
(I homeschool) But, as for this year, I will be starting writing classes next week, AWANA, (A GREAT thing at our church where you memorize Bible verses and such. I’m in the Jr. High program) and I have my own small buisness selling frindship bracelets! 
God bless…quinn emery
August 15th, 2008 at 5:25 am
Congrats! Enjoy the Orientation. I hope you knit in quickly.
As to me? Well, Lord willing, twelve months from now I will have graduated with an associates in Graphic Design at age 21. Lord willing, I will be a better servant in my home and will have better trained my heart to wait on the Lord and trust in Him and His plans (especially when they tend to blow my plans out of the water).
To me, the first is not that important. As long as I graduate at some point the exact date doesn’t matter that much. What IS important is my heart’s attitude toward God and the situations He brings in my life. Do I truly Trust Him? Will I purpose to place myself at His feet so in His grace I learn more of Him so I trust Him more? Will I be Martha, as usual, or will I let Him teach me to a Mary?
I don’t really know where God wants me to go after graduation. Maybe I’ll work for my Church. Maybe I’ll work for Sovereign Grace Ministries. I might get a job for the Smithsonian Institutes. I might work for Missionary businesses. Or God may, yet again, take me in a direction I just cannot see right now. Who knows I might even get married(though that would be REALLY surprising). But whatever He has for me, what is truly vital is that I growing in knowing Him and serving Him.
August 15th, 2008 at 5:25 am
I’m so excited that you guys are moving to Virginia! I pray God’s grace will continue to abound in your lives
August 15th, 2008 at 5:35 am
Thanks for posting this…I start my first year of college on Monday and it was really encouraging to read about the start of your journey. I’m looking forward to seeing what God will do in your lives and the lives of the rebelutionaries this coming year.
August 15th, 2008 at 5:59 am
Hey Alex and Brett,
That’s great that you’re going to collage here in Virginia (northern VA) I’m so excited for you! I will be definitely praying for you guys that God will continue to lead and guide you. Will you be doing any conferences in Richmond (I mean next year)? Well, Have a great and safe flight!
Sarah
August 15th, 2008 at 6:11 am
Hey guys,
This is exciting news. May God use you two on this next step in your life.
I’m also excited to see/hear about the upcoming news.
I will be doing online classes through Moody Bible, and I start the 26th.
Take care,
-Justin
August 15th, 2008 at 6:51 am
My uncle taught criminal justice at Patrick Henry a few years ago. He speaks very, very highly of the place and loves the kids there.
This fall I am going to Howard Community College in MD to hopefully get my RN. I think that for me, as a female, nursing is one form of gender-appropriate training that will be useful no matter where I go in life. And HCC is affiliated with Johns Hopkins, which is really cool!
I agree with you on having a goal when going to college. My mom did not have a goal and ended up dropping out of college, a move which she really regrets.
August 15th, 2008 at 6:51 am
Hey guys, you asked what my next year looks like; It’s going to be pretty exciting becuase I am in tenth grade (fifteen years old) and will be taking some tests called “Clep”s to get college credit without having to take classes at a college. I am hoping to cut off two years of college by taking these test. I am looking to be out of college working at a job by age 18. It’ll be an exciting year! I hope the Lord will use this mightly for His Glory!
All For His Son’s Glory!
August 15th, 2008 at 7:07 am
First of all, thanks so much for what you guys are doing and God bless!
Secondly, have fun at college! I’m sure you guys will do great and my family and I will continue praying for you and your ministry!
Your testimony about the beginning of the Rebelution was inspiring so I started praying about the possibility of being an intern to someone at the Nebraska state capitol. I am a junior in high school and belive that God is calling me into the area of politics, and God, through your book, showed me that I need to start preparing for that and, above all, for service to and for Him. Some of the other “springboards” I am taking advantage of this year are a second year in a homeschool mellodrama, speech and debate, and a part-time job (plus homeschool!)
Thank you so much again for your ministry!
August 15th, 2008 at 7:36 am
I was glad to hear that the Rebelution would be continued. I wasn’t sure if you guys would try to do that and keep up with homework.
College is at least three years away for me, or I may not go at all. I will be entering my freshman/sophmore year of HS (It’s a little confusing being a homeschooler
).
Right now my hard thing is trying to graduate by the time I’m sixteen. I want to do this because I would like a couple years before I delve into college or whatever else the Lord would have me do.
Anyway, I’ll be sure and pray for you guys.
August 15th, 2008 at 8:08 am
Wow! You guys are already off to college! I’ll be praying that everything goes well for you both. And I can’t wait to hear of the new things you both are learning.
As for what my next year holds, finishing up 12th grade with my sister and then in May heading back to the good ol’ US of A
And from then, Lord willing, college! It’ll be an exciting year and I can’t wait to see what God has in store for it.
Anyways, hope the packing and preparing to leave is going ok. Praying!!
August 15th, 2008 at 8:38 am
Woooo!!! I’ll be a freshman in college this year, too. Ya’ll really have helped me focus on what God is calling me to do through out these hard years in in a very worldly public highschool. Thank you.
August 15th, 2008 at 9:10 am
Hey Harris twins!
Y’all picked an awesome school to go to. Although I don’t go there myself, I have heard about the school and know a couple people who are there.
I’m going into my second year of college and I love it. It’s so much fun being around other youths who think like you do, believe like you do, and are committed to studying hard and to serving the Lord hard. I’m sure you will have a blast studying and learning at PHC. I really enjoyed my first year of school and I’m looking forward to this next year. Thank you so much for the website and the book. The book has done more for me than I can say. God bless!
August 15th, 2008 at 9:27 am
Wow that is so exciting!
August 15th, 2008 at 9:46 am
Blessings to you both as you head off to college–and each next step God has for you along the way! May every new thing you put your hand to and every new skill or truth you learn be a tool in your “toolbox” making you better equipped to serve Him!
Blessings,
Abigail @ Pearls and Diamonds
August 15th, 2008 at 9:49 am
I really believe you are going to love college. Not for the same reason many people do (partying, “freedom”, etc) but because it really is an ideal environment for doing hard things. Also, with everything that comes along with college life, there are so many times I find myself seeing God’s grace in things that I wouldn’t have seen had I not been in college. That might sounds strange to you now, but once you start college I think it may make sense.
This fall I will be entering my second year of college. My fall 2007 semester and spring 2008 semester were SO different from each other so I’m excited to see what God has in store for me this upcoming semester. I go to a secular community college (mostly for financial reasons) where the expectations are REALLY low- even for future teachers like me! This semester I really do want to push myself to do the most I can do, rather than do the minimum and still do well (which is usually easy to do at my school. It’s very easy to fall into laziness and complacency when it’s so easy to get an A) As for the whole year, that’s something I’m still praying about! There’s so much I want to do, but I want to make sure it’s something God is calling me to.
I’ll be praying for you guys as you enter into this new, exciting and challenging season of life! Thanks for still keeping up with the site. I was wondering what would happen once you got busy with school, so I’m thrilled to know it’s going to continue.
August 15th, 2008 at 10:04 am
Wow, guys, that’s awesome! This upcoming year I’ll be a junior in homeschool high school[say that ten times fast]. I’m so excited about the classes I’m taking: marine biology, geometry, world history, american lit[maybe], some type of writing course, and worldviews of the western world parts 2 and 3[which combines reading, art, history, and writing]. I’m the most excited about my worldview stuff for this year, I’ll be reading some hard books and writing a LOT of papers, but it will all be worth it in the end. I’ll be praying for you guys as you head off to PHC!
August 15th, 2008 at 10:53 am
A very good post. This year I will be trying to pick up on an herb course,dive deeper into photography,and my Hebrew.I doubt I will be going to college when I graduate(I’m in 10th grade) but you never know what G-d has in store.I will be praying for you guys!
August 15th, 2008 at 11:48 am
I was wondering if you all were going to PH soon. I have been studying a lot this last school year in the Bible and doing a worldview course that is college level. This coming school year I will also take another worldview course from home. I am homeschooled and my sister and I do it with another girl and our father and her father teach it.
Also this coming fall I might be going to PA to participate in their homeschoolers chorus. So maybe I will see you all around the campus. The auditions are next week and I hope I get in because I love to sing and it would be great to do it with other homeschoolers and christians.
As for college I believe I have been called to be a stay at home daughtar until marriage and a keeper at home. So I plan on probably not going to a college, but taking some online courses for college because my parents want me to do some courses. Also I will do some of my own studies probably on subjects l would like to learn more about.
I will be praying for both of you and I know God has much in store for the rebelution and your lives.
God bless!
Rebecca
August 15th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
congratulations and God bless in this new chapter of your life
August 15th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
Thanks so much for the post!
Praying that God will continue to use you and bless you as you follow his direction for your life.
Enjoy PHC…my friend is actually going to be a freshman there as well…
As for me, I’m off to The Master’s College this fall to be a sophmore.
To my all my fellow rebelutionaries: Be encouraged; no matter what season of life your in, school or not, God can use you to advance His Kingdom in mighty ways if you keep following Him.
August 15th, 2008 at 12:39 pm
College is always a monumental decision. I didn’t start my degree until I was 25 but I was able to finish at an accelerated pace with a coaching program called CollegePlus!
If you’re concerned about sitting through hours of lectures from humanistic professors (especially if the hefty pricetag of a Christian university is out of the question), a distance learning approach could be the best option for you, as it was for me. I was able to finish in about year for a total cost of $10,000. Now I’m looking at grad school without the debt load that the average college grad walks away with.
August 15th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
Patrick Henry — cool. What are your majors?
What do you plan on doing in the future career-wise??
Can’t wait to hear about your adventures in college!
Your new blog-reader,
Ellen
August 15th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
That’s exciting guys! And girls actually, it’s good to hear how God is leading and using so many young people in so many different venues. I’ll be a sophomore/junior nursing student at George Fox University this year. An associates degree in Biblical Studies is under my belt and hopefully this year I’ll add EMT certification to my CNA. These are the most current steps in my preparation for the mission field overseas, though God has been confirming more and more that where I am is my mission field for now. God bless!
August 15th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
Hey guys, I just wanted to share my experience of college. Firstly It was a MAJOR wake up call. College has put my faith to test in a way I would have never imagined. I have two semesters to graduate and I am excited to see what the Lord has in store for me. I live in NYC and well, not every place is beneficial. The college I attend is good, but I would at times feel my spirit at battle with all the other things around me. This was a life-changing experience for me because it really put to life the verse that says that we must be light in the midst of darkness.
It was awesome to meet people from different backgrounds and different mindsets. I remember one semester I had a professor who would constantly shout me out as the only “Christian” of the class. This was my biggest test in college, he would always have a comment about the Bible . There were days that I would come home crying, but at the end of it all I was able to gain strength (and I let him know that). I experienced what opposition truly felt like. I learned how easy it is to be “Christian” around Christian people and how hard it is when you’re not around them. I learned how to be a fool for Jesus.
Through my up’s and down’s God always sustained me. When I called on the Lord in my distress, He always answered me.
I pray that the both of you may not represent Jesus but that you may be His reflections. That when you walk down those halls, when you sit in those seats, when you open your mouths to speak and when you do all things, you do them just like the Son of living God.
Finally, I pray that God guards your hearts, minds and spirits for His use alone. That He may hold your hands to guide you through the path of righteousness. You guys have come a long way, but the best is yet to come! I pray that there be no limits to your maturity in the Lord. I can’t stress this verse enough “For I am confident in this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will be faithful to perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus!” -Philippians 1:6
And remember that our Heavenly Father works in mysterious ways so get ready for the next chapter in the book called your life!
May the Lord continue to bless you guys more and more!
August 15th, 2008 at 1:31 pm
Coincidentally, I read BK this past semester.
The core themes appear to my understanding to be about suffering, and what is to be done in the face of it. Does one sin, and thus compound suffering? Or does one respond with faithful obedience?
Fact is, the rains will come. Thankfully, there is only one foundation. Jesus Himself.
August 15th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
I’m off for college too… just knocking the core classes out of the way first. Ever since New Attitude and John Piper’s excellent teaching on bible translation, it’s really been on my heart that maybe God is guiding me in that direction.
Thank you for your post; it was encouraging and exciting and humbling. Your determination to do all things well and for God’s glory impassions me to do the same.
August 15th, 2008 at 2:23 pm
Way to go! My oldest sister just got through three years of nursing school while working a part time job.From her point of view,very hard and stressful, But worth it all. God’s richest blessings to you!!
August 15th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
I’m so excited for you guys! But now I’m in shock I was JUST talking to my mom about how I am hoping to go to PHC to continue my studies. When I came to your website to find the book list with the book written by a student who attended PHC (and decided to write about how unique it is in comparison to other colleges.)
And there it is in big letters:
“Off to Patrick Henry College!”
That is definitely something to pray about. Thank for the heads up!
We all look forward to your next blog post!
Stay safe and God bless,
~Chelsea
August 15th, 2008 at 4:52 pm
Hey guys,
I’m off to college on the 25th also, but I’ll be attending our local (very secular) community college and taking classes that I know will question my faith. I have a question that I would love to have answered in a post sometime soon. How do you react to things people say and do around you that is not what you believe is right? At work I am around alot of crude speaking people and they talk about things that I think are wrong and I try not to react when they say something, but I always wonder if I should say something in defense of Christianity or if that is just starting a fight. I don’t want to deter people away from the Gospel, but at the same time I feel like some people don’t know that I”m any different than they are. I would really appreciate your insight on this.
Thanks so much for this awesome resource for “weird” people like me.
Romans 12:2
August 15th, 2008 at 4:54 pm
How exciting for you two!! I know that you’re experience will be wonderful.
Its funny, my Dad and I were jsut talking about college the other day. He told me (with much passion) that it was one of the greatest experiences of his life. After a few funny stories about his dorm life, he got serious and told me that I needed to start thinking about what college or university I want to attend, and more importantly what area of studies I wanted to go into. I definitely plan on going into the medical field. Missions are my heart, but I need to have something to offer in the mission field. Medicine seem like the most practical thing for me to offer, and I may minor in linguistics (definitely useful as well) My dad, who is a computer engineer, was rather surprised at my choice (though I fail to see why, since I’ve been a biology addict for the past two years) I guess he wanted to see one of his children become a software designer. I am nervous though about choosing a university. My Dad would like for me to attend the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa, because that was were both he and my mother attended and he thinks that the academic standard is much higher there than in the States. But I won’t worry myself now, I will be a junior this year and that gives me plenty of time to pray and ask God what his will for my life is. Who knows, maybe my greatest calling in life is just to be a mother and wife, but God will have to write that one out on a wall for me, I can’t picture myself in that situation at all (might just be because I’m stubborn and tend to lean towards more liberal views when it comes to being a female) Anyway I will be praying for both of you. I know that God will use you to impact fellow students.
Watch out Patrick Henry…here comes the Harris Twins!!
In Christ
Leandrie.
August 15th, 2008 at 5:34 pm
wow yeah that is really exciting! well im going to be a sophmore in highschool… so no big things like college.. just another high school year but still… im hoping it will go good… ill be praying for both of you… good luck in college boys!
spread jesus everywhere you go and keep rebelution going strong!!!!
Hannah
August 15th, 2008 at 5:52 pm
For me, I’m going into my first year of high school kind of scared and sad my sister’s leaving for her own college career. On the other hind, I’m VERY excited to be starting a book study on Do Hard Things through my church with a group of friends, both close and not so familiar. I know God has big plans for this study! He’s never used me in such a way as to impact my friends. Thank you very much!
August 15th, 2008 at 6:24 pm
Praying for you guys!
Leandrie, love the Patrick Henry thing…
August 15th, 2008 at 7:00 pm
Wow! I’d be so scared if I was you. But really, you guys are so much more ready since you’re older. I’m only going into 8th grade so I’m not scared. I’m just worrying about high school. Is it very hard or different? God bless your time in college (eek!). You’re old men now. lol not really.
August 15th, 2008 at 9:11 pm
So, I gather you’re looking forward to this. I’m glad; I was terrified when I dived in.
I find it interesting that I’m one of those people you mentioned, who went to college just because “that’s what you do after high school.” Fortunately, this hasn’t turned out to be a waste of time or money. Many professors and staffers have been enormous help to me, especially this past year (my second) when certain problems became more evident. I needed the extra time and challenge and encouragement, and I’m beginning to find more direction.
Blessings as you head out!
August 15th, 2008 at 10:16 pm
I actually think college fits pretty well with the whole rebelutionary idea. Yes, you can get along without it, but if you’re going to be writing books and all that jazz, yore going to be expected to think on a deeper level than the average Joe. Lit classes, history, etcetera gives you a stronger base for your ideas.
And, I would say going to college is a hard thing.
From what I’ve heard (and I’ve heard a lot), Patrick Henry is a really good school. You guys are going to do great there.
I, personally, am leaving for school at Taylor University on Sunday. This year I’m going to be a student mentor (orienting the freshies), working in the admissions office, and editing our school newspaper. It’s going to be intense, but I know God’s gonna use me in some pretty rad ways if I work with Him.
August 15th, 2008 at 10:17 pm
P.S. I always love your little headers, and I was wondering who designs them.
August 15th, 2008 at 11:06 pm
I’m taking classes at community college this year (NOVA) while doing my senoir year of high school. I’m glad you guys chose PHC, can’t wait to be able to talk to you guys personally at church!!
(so I hear…)
August 15th, 2008 at 11:08 pm
I am SO excited about this year! I can definetly sympathize and share in you guys’ excitement!
I had a really rough year last year, deciding what to do after high school! I had graduated in 2007, and then after looking at several colleges (especially PHC) I decided to go for a year of Bible College because I was not sure what God wanted me to do, and I did not have the financial means to attend the kind of college that I wanted to attend.
In the process, God has been more than faithful!! I often struggled to understand why I had to go through last year. Academically, though it was a Bible College, it was at a jr. high level it often felt like, which frustrated me beyond belief as I am one to fully enjoy a challenge. Yet, because of this experience, God led me to a college program that I know is right for me! I’m not ‘enrolled’ in college, yet I am doing college level work for which I will get credit. I feel like I’m really “doing hard things” now more than ever. I’m looking forward to the next year with fear and trepidation, and yet I take that fear to God, and He is able to give me peace that transcends all understanding!
I’m also a shift manager at Taco Bell, and have the opportunity to promote in the company, if I so desire.
More than anything I look forward to this year, being sooo EXCITED about what God has done in my life, where He has brought me and I cannot wait to see where He will take me!!
To you, Alex and Brett, enjoy VA (its my favorite state!)!!! I used to live there, and miss the weather very much!
August 15th, 2008 at 11:48 pm
Wow, I hope you two have an amazing first year of college! I am a sophomore this fall at Bryan College and loving it. My main purpose, however, is to thank you for publishing your book. I am just now reading it - not even finished yet - and I can’t help but wish that it had been around 7 years ago, when I first hit “the teen years”. It sounds like God already is doing so much through you guys, and I am excited to see what the future will bring!
August 16th, 2008 at 4:06 am
[…] College is becoming a hotly debated issue in Christian homeschool circles. At long last, a lot of people are waking up to some of the dangers and drawbacks. But not going to college is not necessarily the only “holy” route any more than going to college is the only “responsible” route. Here’s a great post by Alex Harris of The Rebelution on why he and his twin brother, Brett, are going to college. It offers an excellent perspective on the late teen years and how they should fit in to a godly Christian life. […]
August 16th, 2008 at 4:53 am
Hey Alex and Brett!
I hope everything’s going smoothly as you pack up and get all your stuff together…it’s so good to hear about someone who is actually going to college to learn!
To honor my parents I’m doing college at home for the next year through a program called College Plus!; basically it helps one earn college credits through CLEPs and DANTES tests. It’s one of my “hard things” ’cause I really wanted to take a break from school this year, but my parents really wanted me to earn a degree. So that’s what I’m doing!
I’ll be praying for you…
~Ericka
August 16th, 2008 at 8:47 am
This was such an encouraging post. The thoughts and concerns you presented are all the ones that I’ve pondered over the past two years, and it’s encouraging to see that we came to the same conclusions!
This year, I’m finishing my senior year of high school while taking a few City College classes to prepare me for next year, when I hope to study Interior Design and Teaching at California State University Long Beach.
I’m praying that God will keep me joyful and strong in Him when the world mocks and pressures my faith, and my priorities straight even as studying, exams, social life vie for top priority. I’ll be praying the same thing for you two as you embark on your first year of college! God be with you!
August 16th, 2008 at 8:59 am
Hey guys-
so i’ve just started reading ur book and it’s really awesome. it really makes me more passionate to follow the verse of ! Tim. 4:12
anyways i jus want u guys to know that i think its awesome that ur goin to college! Now you can do hard things and spread the word on college campus. I hope God blesses and uses you guys even more!
August 16th, 2008 at 9:51 am
WOW!!! That’s exiting I’m happy for you.This past school year my sister and I started a new school curriculum and I think thats hard (witch it is) but you are going to college so I geuss I can’t complane (sorry about spelling) even though I just finnished today but hey do the hard thing right.Well thanks for the post.
God bless.
Thaxton
August 16th, 2008 at 10:02 am
You guys must be so excited! I’ll be praying.
Go with God.
August 16th, 2008 at 10:31 am
I will be a senior this upcoming year, so I will be finishing up my last year of homeschooling. I defintly am not going to college next year so I would like to travel and either help a missionary family or work at a Christian camp. After that I’m considering doing the nursing program where I live.
August 16th, 2008 at 10:41 am
It’s good to see you guys joining some of us on the college experience now…no doubt that it will serve the Rebelution well as you are stretched and challenged in many ways. I might have some somewhat-crucial philosophical differences with PHC, but I agree with what you have to say about their intentions and goals, and definitely about the sorts of people that can be drawn there.
For me, my third year at Geneva College is starting, with a fairly-balanced course selection for my majors in Christian Ministries and Sociology. I have the opportunity this year to serve as a Multicultural Ambassador for my hall (raising awareness and educating residents on a Christian view of diversity and training them to appreciate it in a God-glorifying way as He is the Author of diversity), a Hebrew teaching assistant (Anya will be in my class, actually), a mentor for a group of incoming freshmen, Bible study leader, ministry leader, tutor and, God willing, I will have the opportunity to present an academic paper on Ephesians at St. Vincent College before the end of the semester. I still have much I want to read and write on, and planning for next summer is definitely going to be in the works, as I am searching out God’s plan for that.
All that to say, right there with you guys, and I’ll be praying that this transition works smoothly for you as it did for me, and that God will continually bless you with challenges and trials to show you the abundant measure of His grace and faithfulness as guaranteed us by Jesus’ blood and the filling of the Spirit.
God bless!
Yours In the Gospel,
David
August 16th, 2008 at 11:33 am
I’m homeschooled and I’m going to be starting my first year of high school this year:) I’ll be praying for you guys as you start college. How exciting!
Keep getting more Rebelutionaries for Him!!! 
August 16th, 2008 at 12:29 pm
Wow! What a great new chapter in your guys’ life! PHC is such a great school, I can’t wait to see what God does in and through you both this next year.
I’m a senior in high school this fall, and I’ll be attending community college in a dual enrollment program and taking one class at home. (Math, ugh) Next year as a college Freshman I’m pursuing going to a Christian college in SoCal to major in communications or criminal justice. I feel strongly that God’s calling me to either working with the blind community (training guide dogs/teaching blind kids) or in the tactical side of criminal justice. I’m excited for all the Rebelutionaries as we continue to embark on the adventure of school in ‘08-’09, to see how God works!!
August 16th, 2008 at 1:06 pm
I am inspired by you both. It is awesome to see young people wanting to make a Godly difference in this world! I’ve heard great things about that college! God Bless ya’ll!!!
August 16th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
Alex & Brett,
To my brothers in Christ, Greetings! My family will be praying for you both as you head off to Patrick Henry College this month. May the Lord direct you both in the way that He has for you. You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. - Matthew 5:13-16
You both are also your father’s arrows: Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one’s youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; They shall not be ashamed, But shall speak with their enemies in the gate. - Psalm 127:4-5 (This chapter is one of our family’s life application chapters) Thank your parents for the way that they raised you. They truly followed the verse in Proverbs which says, Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it. Keep up the good work of standing for what is right!
2 of my 3 brothers (we are a family of
have read your book and my other brother will be reading it soon as well! Thank you both for what have you done with the Rebelution and your book. I have not read your book yet but I will soon. I have a pile of books to read and yours in one of them.
I graduated from Homeshool High School in 2007 and I am currently serving my family at home. As Julia said above, my desire is to be a stay at home wife and mother. For our family, it is not my father’s desire to send his daughters off to college. College cannot teach me or my sisters how to be future homemakers or helpmeets for our future husbands.
I am receiving an excellent education from both of my parents at home. My mother teaches me all of the aspects of homemaking which includes honoring, obeying and respecting my father as the leader of the home which will enable me to honor and respect my future husband if the Lord wills me to marry. My father teaches me business skills and I do his computer administrative work among other things. It is also the duty of my siblings and I to catch the vision of Biblical Femininity and Biblical Masculinity as well as the Dominion Mandate of Genesis 1:27-28: So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” We also have the duty of a multi-generational vision. Everything that we do will affect someone else.
May God bless you both and watch over you and keep you while you are at college. May you both draw closer to Him in your college years.
A sister in Christ,
Megan
August 16th, 2008 at 3:20 pm
Brett & Alex,
It is great to see ya’ll living out the dream that you’ve inspired in so many people. As said before, hard things are different for each one of us but all glory to our awesome God who gives us a vision, and then the strength to push on towards that vision. I know that this next year will be full of challenges for us all but how great is it to know that we have a Sovereign God who stays unchangeable through every season of life that we go through.
All praise be to God!
In Christ,
Brianna
August 16th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
Hey brothers!
Well, the next year for me includes finishing up high school and taking several classes at a local college as dual-enrollment. This winter I’ll be going on a short missions trip to Mexico to work at an orphanage there. I’m not exactly sure what the summer holds, but it might be a possible missions trip to Romania.
May the dear Lord bless you, as you head off to PHC.
In awe of Him,
Joanna
August 16th, 2008 at 4:36 pm
Congrats on your decision! I hope it all goes well for you. : )
Like several other young ladies have said, I don’t plan to attend college. I’m serving my family, and the church. I’m also finishing up a course to be a Master Herbalist, as well as working as a mother’s helper part time.
August 16th, 2008 at 6:08 pm
Thats so exciting!! I know God will use you guys in amazing ways at PHC!!
God Bless,
Katie
August 16th, 2008 at 6:53 pm
PHC sounds like the perfect college for you guys. I hope you two someday go into politics because we need true Christian Leadership in our government. I will keep you two in my prayers.
August 16th, 2008 at 7:02 pm
If I had to guess where you guys were going, I probably would have guessed PHC. I’ve heard GREAT things about that college! I hope it even increases your testimony to all teens! I’m off to the University of Kansas. In fact, I’m moving in tomorrow. Big mission field…I hope I can serve God well there.
August 16th, 2008 at 7:12 pm
My next year I’m determined to do hard things!
I am going to my second year of community college even though I went this last year, so its not my first classes there. I am also gearing up for Radiant School of Ministry through my church, its multiple bible based, and foundation building courses that our Pastor greatly encouraged us just graduated seniors to attend. I know that the multiple class schedule will be hard, but good right?!
August 16th, 2008 at 11:05 pm
I’m starting my senior year of High School. It’s going to be hard. I just really want to try really hard to not give up when things get hard. Thank you for this website! It is a reminder and an encouragement. The conference and book made an impact on my thinking for good. I’m hoping to lead a group of younger teens in my youth group through a study of Do Hard Things. That’s what God has for me!
August 16th, 2008 at 11:44 pm
Hey guys - this is exciting! It’s great to know that *you* are genuinely enthused about college. I’ll be praying (as always), that God will use this time at PHC as a wonderful season of growth and good things for both of you. Have a safe flight and keep us updated! Godspeed!
August 17th, 2008 at 7:36 am
Wow. I’m just starting college as well, moved in yesterday. This is entirely new. God is realy stretching me. I’m learning to do things more on my own than ever before. So far, (in the past 24 hours) college is a time of growth into an independant adult.
August 17th, 2008 at 10:27 am
Wow! Good luck! I know you will both do really well. You guys have been a blessing in many ways in my life. I’ll be praying for you both, and for all you other rebelutionaries out there starting college!
August 17th, 2008 at 10:44 am
wow, i’m new on rebelution and i’m impressed at how many people are on here and are supporting on here.
i’ a senior in hs but i plan on going to college for music not long after i grad.
thanks for such a great site, it’s awsome.
August 17th, 2008 at 12:21 pm
I do hope that the Lord will use you guys for His glory and honor while you’re there. I’m choice of collages would be Bob Jones University, Westminster Seminary, and California Christian Collage. I am a Sophomore this year so a few new things are in store. God bless,
Matthew C. Heinselman
August 17th, 2008 at 12:23 pm
My secondary choice for California Christian Collage would be San Diego Christian Collage.
August 17th, 2008 at 2:52 pm
Hey guys! I’m so glad to hear the plans! Wow, you know, I’ve been thinking about this sad and happy time right before you leave the teen years. I seriously didn’t think going from 19 to 20 would be any different than any other two numbers, but I have had a different experience! The kids think 20 is really old, so they see you as the “big person” rather than a nice friend. Then the adults think 20 sounds okay, so they don’t make a big deal about me being young. Over all, everyone talks more about getting me married off, and more and more people are trying to get me hooked up with somebody or else get hooked up with me. Ahhhhh!
So PHC sounds like a wonderful and amazing opportunity for you! I guess the one thing you always have to remember is standing alone inside the “stand-alone” group. Sometimes we get this idea that standing alone can be done in a big group, and sometimes it can be, but even at places as good as PHC, there will be plenty of personal convictions to stand for by yourselves.
So for me next year…all the exciting stuff both big and small, hard and—wait, not easy. Like your past year of random stuff that happens one at a time as the Lord clarifies the path, I am heading down a road that I really can’t give any heads-up about. Sometimes school becomes a security blanket, but God has pretty clearly led me to not continue my college. So here I am, doing lots of very new and comfort-zone stretching, or rather, destroying, ministry and outreach opportunities. All under the guise of political involvement and who-knows-what-else.
Blessings, Peace, and Charity to you!
Adrienne
August 17th, 2008 at 4:29 pm
That looks like a difficult schedule. When do you plan to sleep? Maybe you should write a series on how to do many things well at the same time. I could certainly benefit from that! My capacity is far below yours.
For me next year looks like my third year at a secular college majoring in Mathematics and minoring in History in preparation to be a homeschooling mom (Lord willing). I have lots of opportunities to share the gospel there with my Muslim friend, a Christian organization that works with international students, and an new group I am helping to start with a pregnancy help center. Also, last semester I was given and excellent opportunity to discuss evolution/creation with my Physics professor which will hopefully lead to the gospel very soon! Outside of school I also have church and family activities (I live at home) that will keep me very busy. I am looking forward to watching what God does through all of us as we pursue His will for our year!
August 17th, 2008 at 9:45 pm
Brett & Alex-
I’m so encouraged by your post here! I was planning on attending Patrick Henry College- its a very good school! However, God had different plans for me, and this month I’m headed off to California for West Coast Baptist College! I will keep you both in my prayers! It’s good to see you both following God’s will for your life!
It’s a great encouragement!
A SINNER SAVED BY GRACE ,
REBECCA LUCILLE
(Romans
August 17th, 2008 at 10:01 pm
You boys enjoy that humidity…
August 17th, 2008 at 10:32 pm
LEARN LOTS!!!
August 17th, 2008 at 11:17 pm
Alex and Brett,
I hope you had a good trip down to Virginia! It’s exciting what God is doing in both of your lives as well as all the Rebelutionaries on here.
I’m sure this is true with most of us but what I am doing now at 19 is NOT AT ALL what I thought I would be doing at this age. I had planned for most of my childhood to become a Doctor (then when I watched ER and saw they had a Dr. Abby Lockhart I thought it was a sign. haha). But I can’t even say how thankful I am that God had something different for me. It’s not even something that looks all glamorous to other people. But I couldn’t be happier. Every negative experience I had as a child, God has totally redeemed. He’s given me an incredible opportunity to serve, both a family and ministry. Not only has He given me assignments that involve traveling all over the country but this fall I will be traveling with a ministry team for 5 weeks in Asia.
God’s plan is never boring that’s for sure. For me it hasn’t been the typical teen/college life, but God knows I don’t need that. (Actually, I think He keeps me so busy to keep me out of trouble.) A little hard work never hurt anybody (and it certainly hasn’t hurt me). ; )
God Bless,
Abby
August 17th, 2008 at 11:25 pm
Congrats on going to PHC! I was there last fall and loved so much of it. Some of the most amazing people I have met were at PHC. The first week of freshman orientation was incredibly challenging and exciting. The Lord taught me a lot there, and while I have transferred to a Bible school in CA, I will always love the time He gave me in Virginia.
- Allison (Is. 55:8-9)
August 18th, 2008 at 8:01 am
Good luck in college!
August 18th, 2008 at 8:20 am
I just graduated from high school and I’m leaving for Cascade College on Saturday. It’s a small Christian school in Portland, Oregon and I hope to major in Bible or psychology and minor in missions. I’m not exactly sure what I’ll do, but God has put it on my heart to be in missions for several years now. I’m thinking I’ll try psychology and if I like it, maybe I can help counsel people who have gone through terrible things in other countries. I’m also really looking forward to the close Christian family, since my family hasn’t really been that, especially since my parents split up in the last year and my brother fell away from God. And my church has been going through a hard time too, losing the youth minister and preacher and worship leader and campus minister. So I’m really looking forward to Christian community. I’m also thinking about interning in Portland with a homeless ministry I’ve helped with before. I need to get an idea of how the timing will work with school first though.
August 18th, 2008 at 8:44 am
I am 21 years old, and not attending college. For me, that was the right decision. I always try and encourage those young people who are trying to decide on college to think and pray about the decision and not just go because “that’s what you do.” Your decision needs to be between you, God and your family. I know a few people who are attending college because of pressure. They would rather not be there, but they’re there because that is what everyone else is doing and what everyone expects them to do. My parents are 100 percent behind me and that has helped me immeasurably when those questions come in from people and even grandparents who cannot understand my decision. It’s a hard decision, but we know about doing hard things. So thank you for your post. It was encouraging to me even now, three years after I made my decision and am living it out. I also know that it will be encouraging to those coming up to it.
My younger brother, Jeremy is a freshmen at PHC. He left Sunday as well. What an exciting time this is for you all. I will be praying for all you freshmen at PHC! Maybe you two will run into my brother.
In Christ,
Rachel
Norhtwest Montana