Which conservative college for my son?

Ted

[Ted]

OK Freepers, I can't believe it, but my oldest of three sons is a Sophomore in High School. He's attending a private prep school here in Austin. It's time for us to generate a list of colleges to survey.

When pressed (slightly) he told me this evening that if he had to choose tomorrow he would major in History, Psychology, or Business. I'd guess he'll graduate in the second quartile of his tough school (no genius, but respectable), will score 1200-1250 on SAT, and has been reasonably active in outside activities/volunteer work. Let's assume total costs of $20K - $25K/year would be OK (ouch...).

My goals:

-Conservative school that will teach non-revisionist history and has a deep respect of our country.
-A school where it's OK for a well-rounded guy to enjoy other activities besides studying (he's no academic..., loves sports).
-Ideally in the South, but not required.
-Academically respected institution.
-A school where it's OK to be a Christian (a "Christian" school is not required, but it MUST respect/support Christianity).

Thus far I like what I see at Hillsdale College in Michigan, but dang, Michigan? He's a Texas boy! Is there a similar school any closer to home?

Thanks in advance for your thoughts. Be nice - signed, a slightly nervous Dad.

[Windsong]

Just a small note on Harding, which I attended for 2 years. He will eithe rlove it or hate it. If he is over 25, he will hate it with all his might. Mandatory chapel is nothing compared to the almost dominant teeny bopper set. On the other hand, if you LIKE the idea of mandatory chapel..go for it. Another good school is Freed Hardeman, but its in hick town U.S.A. Henderson, TN. Also a C of C school. Even more conservative than Harding, but not as bad as say, Bob Jones U. Lots of hunters and uh..fishers *grin*

[Ted]

Thanks! I'd never heard of CIU. I certainly agree with their doctrinal positions. My concern with a Christian school is that you end up almost getting stuck having to graduate there (no changing schools if it's not a fit) due to the heavier Bible coursework. I'm all for Bible study, but am wondering if this is an issue. Thank God He can lead us if we'll listen!...

Regards.

[Ted]

Davidson sounds nice, thanks for the reference. It sounds similar to where he's going to prep school now - and he loves it. I appreciate the reply.

[Ted]

He has no prob with mandatory chapel, he does it now. Thanks for the reply.

[SunnyUsa]

I like your advice!

It is true, you may as well learn to DEAL with the liberal nutters - and for kids who don't go to private conservative high schools - THEY are ALREADY dealing with that mentality!

I also put all our alumni newsletters and begging letters in the Recycle File within 5 seconds of recieving them!

[coder2]

Ted --- I saved a similar thread a few months ago. I will be starting to look next year for my son (UGH !). Looks like there are many of us feeling the same way - luckily there's FR to turn to. Anyway, there may be some colleges on this other thread that aren't mentioned on this one.

Good luck !!!

(Recommended Colleges)

[Ted]

Thanks for the URL, I did a search on college, not colleges... good stuff. Have you narrowed your choices?

Regards.

[slimer]

I would be curious about how strong their affiliation is with the Church of Christ? I don't agree with all their doctrine. Thanks!

And what doctrine would that be? They teach biblical doctrine all the way. It's understandable that some people don't want to hear the teachings that may challange their ideas of bible doctrine. They want to hear what their itching ears want to hear as opposed to the truth.
IMHO, the Church of Christ is the closest thing to truth that there is.

The main problem is that The Church of Christ teasches that Baptism is necessary for salvation as opposed to faith only.

I came as a sceptic but upon carefully examining the scripture, became a beleiver.

Please understand that I am talking about the major teachings on salvation and do not care to quibble over disputable matters that may have their basis in cultural or traditional roots. No church exists where everyone agrees on every doctrine. It' the major ones that matter most.

With Churches of Christ the big question is, do you believe that Baptism is necessary for Salvation?

[ReaganGirl]

Let me echo all the support on this thread for Hillsdale College.

As a Mississippi girl understand your ill-ease about sending your "Lone Star" son into the wilds of the north, however I have worked with a number of young Hillsdale grads, may from the south originally and have found them to be the best young colleagues I've ever worked with.

My second choice would be Ashland College in Ohio, but only if your son has the grades to be accepted into the Ashbrook Fellowship. It's an amazing program for young conservatives.

Best wishes.

[FR_addict]

I wish I had realized how much brain washing goes on in college in the last 15 years. Too late for my kids but good luck finding a good school for yours.

I think this thread is going to be very popular.

[coder2]

Just starting to look --- we have a little bit of time, but that will go fast... We won't start really actively looking until next year.

My son has good solid conservative values too, but he wants to play baseball -- so he wants Florida. UGH !!! I have definitely ruled out the U of MN --- good place to play baseball, but so over-the-top liberal. In fact, I have ruled out any schools in MN !

So as you can see, I'm basically in the same place you are --- looking for any advice/help I can get. Good luck --- I'll be interested in hearing what you finally decide.

[Ted]

I appreciate the Church of Christ, but just don't agree with all the doctrine (did you see I'm a cellist?...). I promote immersion, but don't believe it's an absolute criteria to make it in. And I'm full gospel, you know, tongue talkin' miracle believing type of guy. I'm sure Pepperdine would be good, it is on our list. I really don't want to make this a doctrinal thread, feel free to freep mail me if you wish.

[Ted]

UNI, thanks, we'll look into it.

[CFW]

Toccoa Falls College in Georgia. Small Christian college in the foothills of NE Georgia mountains. Beautiful place. My son is a sophmore there and loves it.

[NeoCaveman]

I am sure he can find pot, strippers, and alcohol anywhere. It's about responsibility and free will choices, on that I am consistent, not changing views to fit the thread. Nice try, though

[sakic]

You owe it to your child to send him to the best academic school he can get into no matter which way the staff leans. If you're afraid he'll become a Liberal then remember that many graduate college as Liberals. In the following years, if he's bright, he'll be able to come to his own conclusions.

[homeschool mama]

You're a wise and thoughtful father to begin the search. What a heart you must have for your family! Kudos to you.

Biola University in Southern California is a conservative college that is based on Christian principles. Great variety of majors..highly academic and expects the best from students. Absolutely beautiful campus...in the $25k range though...but hey, there's scholarships...8o)

Patrick Henry College on the east coast is rather new but shows *very* promising stats at this point. Very conservative and has a mission to historically accurate studies. Christian based.

Bob Jones University is also on the east coast. Has a good reputation and is conservative. Christian based. A few friends attended this university.

Blessings to you in your search. HM

[coder2]

ANOTHER PLANE JUST FLEW INTO THE 2ND TOWER