Issue #2
The Crusader Update from UMHB
To the parents of this year's new students:
In this issue of The Crusader Update, you will find a letter written specifically for you from a fellow parent. You will relate to Susan’s apprehensiveness, excitement, and anticipation. The following is Susan’s letter:
Welcome to the Crusader Family. Get ready for one of the greatest experiences of your life!!
As the summer passes quickly, I know it will be time for my daughter, Sara, to return to UMHB in only a few weeks. I think back on the summer before Sara began her freshman year at UMHB. She was so excited to be venturing out on her own and I was excited for her. She had felt for many months that God was leading her to UMHB, yet I was still apprehensive. Not apprehensive in her choice of UMHB, that felt right to me also; but my mind raced... had I taught her the right values, would she be okay without me and me without her? Had I been too strict on her curfew--would she know how to handle herself knowing I would not be waiting up for her to come in at night? Did I teach her how to budget her money (although she would tell you it's not hard to budget the small amount I sent to her during her freshman year)? Would she turn everything she owned pink when she did her first load of laundry in the dorm--maybe I should have bought all white towels?
As the first few days and weeks of school passed quickly, I realized that Sara was becoming her own person, and most of my worries were unfounded. Sure, she had her share of emergencies and tough times, but she had listened to me when I told her to be sure to always have a little cash on hand for emergencies, she did learn how to stay out late and still get to early classes on time and make good grades. And as luck would have it, she likes the color "pink". I am glad that I encouraged her to become involved in campus activities and that I too became involved with the Crusader Parent Organization. Some of our best memories have been of Campus Run before the home football games, the Couch Cru at the games, making it to the playoffs in football two years in a row, homecoming activities, and the annual Easter Pageant (you have to see the Easter pageant!).
I encourage you to step back and let God take charge. Pray for your child every day; ask your friends and family to pray every day, for both your student and for you. There are big changes ahead for both of you so be sure that your child knows that your love is unconditional and no matter the circumstances, you and God can handle it.
As Sara prepares to begin her junior year at UMHB as a "Welcome Week Mom" I am so proud of her. I urge you to keep close to your heart that "God has a plan" and let Him show you that plan as you begin your UMHB journey.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
Go Cru,
Susan
Did you know?
Higher education pays off big. Average lifetime earnings for a full-time, year-round worker with:
- A high school education $1.2 million
- A college graduate $2.1 million
- A doctorate degree $3.4 million
- A professional degree $4.4 million
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Dates to Document
August 18: Move-In Day! In addition to the residence halls being open, all registration offices will be open (for freshmen students only) so that your student can complete this process before you leave.
August 18-23: Welcome Week (to sign up, go to www.umhb.edu/welcomeweek)