College life can be overwhelming—late-night studying, looming deadlines, and constant demands. But for many students at Southern Nazarene University, success is not just measured by grades. It is about finding balance between academics and faith, making sure Christ remains at the center of the college journey.
For sophomore Sarah Graves, an elementary education major, that balance begins before she even steps into a classroom.
“I start my day off by listening to worship music while I get ready,” Graves said. “My roommate and I also listen to a short devotion before we leave for class. It reminds me of what my focus of the day needs to fall back on.”
Freshman Emma Sanford, a ministry major, said the key is getting priorities straight.
“If we are not prioritizing Jesus over everything, our faith will definitely get put on the back burner,” Sanford expressed. “Doing simple things like reading the Bible before homework makes all the difference.”
She added that community plays a major role.
“Who am I surrounding myself with? Are my friends edifying and glorifying the Lord?” Sanford claimed. “If you are backed by the right people, it is so much easier to do the right things.”
Freshman Taylor Bayless, a music education major, said church commitments shape her schedule.
“I try to do my homework when I am done with class because going to church is a very big priority,” Bayless said. “I pray and worship the entire way to class and on the way home. That helps me start my day off right.”
Each student admitted that balance is not always easy, especially during exams and busy weeks. But they agreed that SNU’s environment encourages them to integrate faith and academics instead of choosing one over the other.
Sanford said her best advice for new students is simple:
“Find the right people, focus on the right things, and love others.”
At SNU, the message is clear—college is not just about passing classes. It is about keeping Christ at the center, even in the middle of deadlines and distractions.
Photo by: Piper Stewart