What do you think?
Rate this book
Thriving at College: Make Great Friends, Keep Your Faith, and Get Ready for the Real World!
Going to college can be exciting, anxiety inducing, and expensive! You want your child to get the most out of their college experience--what advice do you give? Thriving at College by Alex Chediak is the perfect gift for a college student or a soon-to-be college student. Filled with wisdom and practical advice from a seasoned college professor and student mentor, Thriving at College covers the ten most common mistakes that college students make--and how to avoid them! Alex leaves no stone unturned--he discusses everything from choosing a major and discerning one's vocation to balancing academics and fun, from cultivating relationships with peers and professors to helping students figure out what to do with their summers. Most importantly, this book will help students not only keep their faith but build a vibrant faith and become the person God created them to be.
In a nutshell, Thriving at College is about how college students can launch into responsible, fruitful adulthood for the glory of God against the backdrop of a young adult culture that often values perpetual adolescence and the avoidance of responsibility. It explores topics such as embracing responsibility, loving God with all your mind, growing in character and maturity, striving for academic excellence, balancing work and recreation, finding your calling, establishing godly friendships, handling the transition from high school to college, time management, financial discipline, and honoring parents while pursuing functional/economic independence.
In a nutshell, Thriving at College is about how college students can launch into responsible, fruitful adulthood for the glory of God against the backdrop of a young adult culture that often values perpetual adolescence and the avoidance of responsibility. It explores topics such as embracing responsibility, loving God with all your mind, growing in character and maturity, striving for academic excellence, balancing work and recreation, finding your calling, establishing godly friendships, handling the transition from high school to college, time management, financial discipline, and honoring parents while pursuing functional/economic independence.
368 pages, Paperback
First published March 14, 2011
25 people are currently reading
272 people want to read
About the author
Alex Chediak
8 books6 followersAlex Chediak is an author, speaker, and an associate professor of engineering and physics at California Baptist University. Alex has been involved in campus ministries and mentoring students for many years. He has published numerous articles in Boundless, an online magazine for young adult Christians, and he is the author of 5 Paths to the Love of Your Life and With One Voice. Alex has an MS and PhD in engineering from University of California–Berkeley. Originally from the Chicago area, Alex and his wife, Marni, and their three children now reside in Riverside, California.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
September 2, 2019
As a rising college freshman leaving home in a week, I found this book really helpful. It is full of practical advice, but Chediak makes sure to cite the biblical sources on which he is basing his recommendations. It is a fairly flexible book that should be applicable to a wide variety of Christian students. Chediak urges balance in a variety of areas of college life by warning against mistakes that can be made from both sides. He addresses the dangers of becoming obsessed with grades as well as the dangers of reckless partying; he warns against idolizing marriage and against being marriage-averse; he explores the advantages and disadvantages of schools big or small, Christian or secular, and of majors that are broad or narrow.
Overall, Chediak presents an excellent example of how Christianity provides a robust framework for effective living that can be successfully implemented in the college years. My personal favorite section was the third chapter on intentionality in relationships, which really challenged me to consider how I find my friends and deepen my friendships. This book provided me with lots of encouraging and challenging ideas to consider as I head off to college, and I would recommend it to any Christian who is in college or will be headed there soon.
Overall, Chediak presents an excellent example of how Christianity provides a robust framework for effective living that can be successfully implemented in the college years. My personal favorite section was the third chapter on intentionality in relationships, which really challenged me to consider how I find my friends and deepen my friendships. This book provided me with lots of encouraging and challenging ideas to consider as I head off to college, and I would recommend it to any Christian who is in college or will be headed there soon.
October 17, 2024
This is a really good book for senior/freshman college students to read!!!
Read
November 3, 2023Rating - 3.5 stars
It was *heavily* geared towards college students at university, but there were a lot of things that were universal. I love how he related each aspect to Christ in some way and how we can grow to glorify Him in those areas. This is definitely a great read for college freshmen or high school seniors who want to start planning ahead.
It was *heavily* geared towards college students at university, but there were a lot of things that were universal. I love how he related each aspect to Christ in some way and how we can grow to glorify Him in those areas. This is definitely a great read for college freshmen or high school seniors who want to start planning ahead.
July 7, 2020
This is a great book with a lot of amazing thoughts, but it has to be found through bits of boredom. As it is written for all types of college situations, I found some parts more relatable than others. I would, however still highly recommend this book.
July 13, 2020
Solid book. Nothing too extreme, full of practical advice. The book is set up in a way that some parts will be more valuable than others, depending on the person. Although, in general, the book is geared towards people that are just finishing high school (which makes sense) as opposed to slightly older people who have already figured some of the things that it writes about out.
September 10, 2013
Most Christian young people go to college without specific goals, and are unprepared for the challenges that await them. While some prosper spiritually, most get derailed, and an alarming number abandon their faith, probably because they didn’t have their own faith in the first place. Alex Chediak has written an insightful and useful book to help college-bound people know what to expect, how to prepare for it, and what to do to avoid the pitfalls. He offers great insights on everything from friendships to dating relationships to professors. Alex addresses time and money management, character development, grades, work, rest and the danger of passivity. I enjoyed reading this well-written book, and recommend it wholeheartedly not only to young people but also to their parents and church leaders.
August 27, 2012
This is the classic example of a book that in hindsight I would have only read a few select chapters of rather than the whole book. Due to the fact that my convictions on many of the topics addressed (such as relationships, identifying with Christ, etc.) are already established and the fact that I'm going to be commuting, much of this book didn't apply to me, however, if you're planning on living at college, you most definitely should read the entire book. The chapters toward the end, particularly the most practical ones I found to be very helpful. If you're going to be commuting and your convictions on the topics above are solid, then I would suggest only reading Chapters 2, 7, 8, and 9.
The one great part is that Chediak most definitely passes the theology test as far as the fundamentals are concerned: in the second appendix, he quotes Sproul, Piper, Miller, Owen, and Edwards!
The one great part is that Chediak most definitely passes the theology test as far as the fundamentals are concerned: in the second appendix, he quotes Sproul, Piper, Miller, Owen, and Edwards!
February 6, 2017
Decent for a self-help, "find yourself at college" book. A bit dry, but it gets right to the point.
Well-placed reminders about assuming responsibility, hard work, and productivity. If Douglas Wilson were to write this quasi-tome in a 50 page booklet, with his P.G.Wodehousian tone, I would greatly enjoy it. Otherwise it was a bit of a bore. A true, insightful, bore.
Well-placed reminders about assuming responsibility, hard work, and productivity. If Douglas Wilson were to write this quasi-tome in a 50 page booklet, with his P.G.Wodehousian tone, I would greatly enjoy it. Otherwise it was a bit of a bore. A true, insightful, bore.
April 30, 2014
BOOK REVIEW: THRIVING AT COLLEGE BY ALEX CHEDIAK
To begin: This book is NOT just for high school students (particularly twelfth graders) or current college students. This book is for LIFE in general. Wherever you are in life, this book provides extremely biblical and wonderful advice and pointers on how to live your life for Christ, avoid distractions, squash idols, manage time and money, nurture God-honoring relationships, and several other aspects and areas of life.
Mr. Chediak starts out in the introduction of Thriving at College saying that “this book is, in essence, an attempt at taking you out to Starbucks and telling you what I’ve learned about the college years-and, most importantly, telling you how to make your college season the best years of your life (so far).” And that’s exactly what reading this book is: a refreshing one-on-one break with a wise professor in a coffeehouse atmosphere. I wish I could quote the entire book, but as that would be both ridiculous and futile, I have pulled out my most favorite parts and quotes for consideration and review.
(xi-xii) “Our culture has a definite perspective on what college should involve. If you follow it, you’ll throw your best years away, chasing experience after experience, mastering video games, hanging out at the mall, watching movies, and generally delaying responsibility. They’ll tell you that college is about having fun, living it up…our culture promotes the idea of prolonged adolescence.”
I’ve experienced this first hand; like Mr. Chediak, I attend a public high school (I will be graduating in about a month) and I have seen the effects of the “just a teenager” mentality and the laziness and partying that society promotes. And it isn’t just for teens! Adults are targeted as well. In fact, as Thriving at College lays out, the “brainwashing,” if you will, begins at a young age and remains all through life, keeping the cycle of low-educated, mindless, and lazy generations going.
What I loved about this book is that it gently convicts, offers extremely practical advice, and softly redirects. I will admit: I am unfaithful in prayer, a Facebook addict, and a nearly always stressed out person.
“...A life of goofing around and hanging out is unfulfilling. I hope you also know that self-centered, workaholic professionalism can’t satisfy you either. Chasing money and prestige is a fool’s errand. Its pleasure is fleeting, leaving you with an empty, gnawing hunger for more. No, you want to be a part of something great. College is about finding your place in God’s world-not fitting God into your plans, but finding your place in His-so that you can be a blessing to others.” (xvii; emphasis mine).
How my heart sings at this wonderful statement! So often do I discuss MY plans and MY future and MY tomorrow, when I should remember that none of that is mine! My life is God’s time; He has numbered my days and written out my plan and knows every single thing I will do and will not do in “my” life! How awesome is our God! Mr. Chediak touches on this on page xxii: “…There’s no “your time.” You are someone who takes care of the time, gifts, and talents that God has entrusted to you.”
I want to, in college and in life, do as William Carey said and Alex Chediak quoted: to “expect great things from God and attempt great things for God.” (xviii)
“The question we all have to ask ourselves is this: Is God going to occupy a compartment of my life, or will he be central? It can be nice to have God in a neat, safe place where He can comfort us when we’re lonely or confused, but not really interfere with us when things are going our way. But then He’s more our copilot…than our Lord and Treasure. And that kind of faith is a façade; it’s not the real thing. Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of My Father Who is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21). Obeying Jesus is not an option for the Christian; there is no such thing as a nonpracticing Christian.
God doesn’t want just a place in your life; He wants your entire life. If He’s not Lord of all, then He’s not Lord at all. Don’t squeeze God into your plans; find your place in His plan.” (pg. 26; emphasis mine).
So often do I do this: when I give a basic description of myself, I often find being a Christian just a bullet point on the list. It shouldn’t be like that. Being a Christian should not only be a name or a label, it should be a way of life, deeply engrained and interwoven into every word that comes out of my mouth, action that I perform and execute, and thought that crosses my mind.
Moving on, Mr. Chediak’s book is riddled with sayings and mantras that aren’t just bumper-sticker worthy: they should be laws of life.
“Don’t whine, don’t complain, and don’t make excuses.” (xiii)
“Don’t try to be better than someone else. But never stop trying to be the best you can be.”
“Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.”
“No one is an overachiever. How can you rise above your level of competency? No, we’re all underachievers to different degrees…Don’t measure yourself by what you’ve accomplished, but rather by what you should have accomplished with your abilities.”
Often I felt that Mr. Chediak was reading my mind. One of the things he mentions in Thriving at College that I’ve always held onto is the principle that someone will always be better than you in an area and someone will always be worse than you. Don’t be jealous of the person above you and don’t boast over the person below you. Instead, imitate the person above you and counsel and help the person below you.
And now I come to one of the major focuses of the book: the current culture, honing in on teenagers, mindsets, worldviews, and academics.
“We all have a worldview-a “mental map” of reality, a set of assumptions or beliefs…Your mental map informs your expectations about high school, college, friends, guys, girls, church, sports, weekends, and everything else. It informs you of what to expect not just of others but of yourself. What, then, informs this all-informing mental map? Whatever you let shape your mind and heart-your parents, your values, your pastors, friends, what you listen to on your iPod, who you follow on Twitter, your movies, shows, magazines, and all the rest. What does your mental map say you are as a young adult? Are you “just” a teenager or early twenties adolescent who, because you’re still trying to figure out who you are, isn’t capable of doing much? Rather than setting high goals and working toward them, do you need to simply experience whatever your heart fancies at the moment in order to ensure you aren’t suppressing healthy self-expression or somehow missing out? Or are you young adult, capable of delaying gratification and working steadily for meaningful, significant goals, with talent, strength, and vigor on loan from God? Do you see yourself in a season of diligent preparation for becoming the kind of man or woman who can embrace greater responsibilities down the road (job, marriage, family, ministry), even as you do good and bring God glory now? Broadly speaking, those are the two visions competing for your heart as a young man or woman in the twenty-first century.” (xxi-xxii)
“These days the entertainment and leisure industry is aggressively marketing its vision of youth culture to you…Lots of people have a vested interest in making you believe that being young is all about having fun, partying, and more or less ignoring life’s responsibilities for as long as possible. It’s a culture of low expectations and endless amusement.” (xxiii; emphasis mine).
“…The Harris brothers [authors of Do Hard Things] write:
…Prior to the late 1800s there were only 3 categories of age: childhood, adulthood, and old age. It was only with the coming of the early labor movement with its progressive child labor laws, coupled with new compulsory schooling laws, that a new category, called adolescence, was invented. Coined by G. Stanley Hall, who is often considered the father of American psychology, “adolescence” identified the artificial zone between childhood and adulthood when young people ceased to be children, but were no longer permitted by law to assume the normal responsibilities of adulthood, such as entering into a trade or fining gainful employment. Consequently, marriage and family had to be delayed as well, and so we invented “the teenager,” an unfortunate creature who had all the yearnings and capabilities of an adult, but none of the freedoms or responsibilities.
Teenage life became a 4-year sentence of continuing primary education and relative idleness known as “high school” (four years of schooling which would be later be repeated in the first two years of college)…Cultivated…was the culture we know today, where young people are allowed, encouraged, and even forced to remain quasi-children for much longer than necessary.” (xxiii-xxiv; emphasis mine)
This section made my blood turn cold. I thought to myself “I KNEW it! I was right all along! High school IS a waste!”
I always wondered why on earth we had to complete “general ed” courses in college when we’d already done it in high school. This quote from the Harris brothers totally answered that question: because high school should NOT exist! College is where the REAL education is! I honestly am frustrated and furious with the childishness of my generation, and I feel the yearnings of adulthood as well: I feel cramped and contained in a category that doesn’t define me! I shouldn’t be here! As I mentioned, I am currently a senior in high school, and I am sitting here writing this review because I HAVE NOTHING to do. I never have any homework and I have straight A’s AND I’m taking an AP course. I took AP Government this past semester and it WAS challenging, which I was EXTREMELY grateful for. Sadly, it was only a semester course and now I am only taking AP Literature, which is a year-long course. And, sadly, it shouldn’t even be called an AP course: I am not challenged at all. 90% of the work assigned is pointless busywork, and the other 10% is actual reading-of-books, essays, and, currently, a research paper, which I finished a few days after it was assigned (I wrote 9 pages in about 2 hours). This is extremely disappointing and almost offensive to me because I WANT to be challenged. I LIKE to have my butt kicked academically. I took AP US History and AP Composition last year and spent every night with over 6 hours of homework, crying and tearing out my hair, and it was AWESOME. I earned A’s in both of those courses and they were EXTREMELY hard to achieve. AP US History especially was a mountain all on its own. I received an A in the course because I spent over 7 hours on the final project, which bumped my grade from the seemingly-permanent B to an A. I received C’s on all of the tests and DBQ’s/essays in that course, and received a 3 on the AP Exam. It was NOT easy. History isn’t my strength, but English is. In AP Composition, my blessing of a teacher Ms. Evans was having us read AND annotate challenging books (one being nearly 600 pages), annotate articles/poems/etc., complete difficult projects, and write essays EVERY SINGLE WEEK. I can’t count the number of essays I wrote and papers I annotated. And I received a 5 on the AP Comp Exam, a 5 being the highest score anyone can earn on any AP Exam. THAT is what an AP course should be like, and what our academics should be like!
I love Mr. Chediak’s analysis of the fool, the sluggard, and the wise (pages xxviii-xxxii).
The fool is lacks sense, is gullible, and has dullness and obstinacy. (pgs. xxviii-xxix)
“Sluggards are lazy: They don’t attend to their responsibilities and so are ultimately overwhelmed by them (Proverbs 6:9-10)…They rationalize their laziness (Proverbs 20:4) and have a generally high and unsubstantiated view of themselves (Proverbs 26:16). It is difficult for them to learn and grow since they think they’re already awesome. Because they lack diligence, they are a nightmare as employees…” (pg., xxix)
“[The wise] are the ones who actively and vigorously give themselves to instruction-not just in classes, but in life.” (pg. xxx)
Fools and sluggards (particularly sluggards) seem to be the ones plaguing our society the most. We should all strive to become wise in order to be examples and to reflect Jesus Christ so others too may rise to their full potential and see Jesus as Someone real, alive, and all-powerful.
Which leads me to my next point.
Mr. Chediak explores arguments from non-believers as well as the biblical truth and the awesomeness of God. (pgs. 6-10).
I especially love how he includes the atheist view and the “spiritual but not religious” view (pg. 12) because I have met people from both these views. The “spiritual but not religious” view is very popular and common today, I feel.
Another helpful section is where he touches on being “tolerant.” (pgs. 16-17) So many times have I heard Christians being called “intolerant” because they won’t support abortion, gay rights, etc.
Alas, this review is getting quite long and I must retire to bed. Typing up all of the quotes and concepts I noted and jotted down would take forever and I don’t have that time! But I will keep the list so that when I buy my own copy I can highlight and annotate. J
Overall, this book receives 5 out of 5 stars and 100/100 on the point scale. In my book, it’s 110% amazing. This is a book I MUST own and I will be sure to have my future children read it, as well as my younger sister, boyfriend (who is currently attending CBU!), and others. Thank you for writing this book Mr. Chediak, and may God bless you!!!
~Amanda
To begin: This book is NOT just for high school students (particularly twelfth graders) or current college students. This book is for LIFE in general. Wherever you are in life, this book provides extremely biblical and wonderful advice and pointers on how to live your life for Christ, avoid distractions, squash idols, manage time and money, nurture God-honoring relationships, and several other aspects and areas of life.
Mr. Chediak starts out in the introduction of Thriving at College saying that “this book is, in essence, an attempt at taking you out to Starbucks and telling you what I’ve learned about the college years-and, most importantly, telling you how to make your college season the best years of your life (so far).” And that’s exactly what reading this book is: a refreshing one-on-one break with a wise professor in a coffeehouse atmosphere. I wish I could quote the entire book, but as that would be both ridiculous and futile, I have pulled out my most favorite parts and quotes for consideration and review.
(xi-xii) “Our culture has a definite perspective on what college should involve. If you follow it, you’ll throw your best years away, chasing experience after experience, mastering video games, hanging out at the mall, watching movies, and generally delaying responsibility. They’ll tell you that college is about having fun, living it up…our culture promotes the idea of prolonged adolescence.”
I’ve experienced this first hand; like Mr. Chediak, I attend a public high school (I will be graduating in about a month) and I have seen the effects of the “just a teenager” mentality and the laziness and partying that society promotes. And it isn’t just for teens! Adults are targeted as well. In fact, as Thriving at College lays out, the “brainwashing,” if you will, begins at a young age and remains all through life, keeping the cycle of low-educated, mindless, and lazy generations going.
What I loved about this book is that it gently convicts, offers extremely practical advice, and softly redirects. I will admit: I am unfaithful in prayer, a Facebook addict, and a nearly always stressed out person.
“...A life of goofing around and hanging out is unfulfilling. I hope you also know that self-centered, workaholic professionalism can’t satisfy you either. Chasing money and prestige is a fool’s errand. Its pleasure is fleeting, leaving you with an empty, gnawing hunger for more. No, you want to be a part of something great. College is about finding your place in God’s world-not fitting God into your plans, but finding your place in His-so that you can be a blessing to others.” (xvii; emphasis mine).
How my heart sings at this wonderful statement! So often do I discuss MY plans and MY future and MY tomorrow, when I should remember that none of that is mine! My life is God’s time; He has numbered my days and written out my plan and knows every single thing I will do and will not do in “my” life! How awesome is our God! Mr. Chediak touches on this on page xxii: “…There’s no “your time.” You are someone who takes care of the time, gifts, and talents that God has entrusted to you.”
I want to, in college and in life, do as William Carey said and Alex Chediak quoted: to “expect great things from God and attempt great things for God.” (xviii)
“The question we all have to ask ourselves is this: Is God going to occupy a compartment of my life, or will he be central? It can be nice to have God in a neat, safe place where He can comfort us when we’re lonely or confused, but not really interfere with us when things are going our way. But then He’s more our copilot…than our Lord and Treasure. And that kind of faith is a façade; it’s not the real thing. Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of My Father Who is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21). Obeying Jesus is not an option for the Christian; there is no such thing as a nonpracticing Christian.
God doesn’t want just a place in your life; He wants your entire life. If He’s not Lord of all, then He’s not Lord at all. Don’t squeeze God into your plans; find your place in His plan.” (pg. 26; emphasis mine).
So often do I do this: when I give a basic description of myself, I often find being a Christian just a bullet point on the list. It shouldn’t be like that. Being a Christian should not only be a name or a label, it should be a way of life, deeply engrained and interwoven into every word that comes out of my mouth, action that I perform and execute, and thought that crosses my mind.
Moving on, Mr. Chediak’s book is riddled with sayings and mantras that aren’t just bumper-sticker worthy: they should be laws of life.
“Don’t whine, don’t complain, and don’t make excuses.” (xiii)
“Don’t try to be better than someone else. But never stop trying to be the best you can be.”
“Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.”
“No one is an overachiever. How can you rise above your level of competency? No, we’re all underachievers to different degrees…Don’t measure yourself by what you’ve accomplished, but rather by what you should have accomplished with your abilities.”
Often I felt that Mr. Chediak was reading my mind. One of the things he mentions in Thriving at College that I’ve always held onto is the principle that someone will always be better than you in an area and someone will always be worse than you. Don’t be jealous of the person above you and don’t boast over the person below you. Instead, imitate the person above you and counsel and help the person below you.
And now I come to one of the major focuses of the book: the current culture, honing in on teenagers, mindsets, worldviews, and academics.
“We all have a worldview-a “mental map” of reality, a set of assumptions or beliefs…Your mental map informs your expectations about high school, college, friends, guys, girls, church, sports, weekends, and everything else. It informs you of what to expect not just of others but of yourself. What, then, informs this all-informing mental map? Whatever you let shape your mind and heart-your parents, your values, your pastors, friends, what you listen to on your iPod, who you follow on Twitter, your movies, shows, magazines, and all the rest. What does your mental map say you are as a young adult? Are you “just” a teenager or early twenties adolescent who, because you’re still trying to figure out who you are, isn’t capable of doing much? Rather than setting high goals and working toward them, do you need to simply experience whatever your heart fancies at the moment in order to ensure you aren’t suppressing healthy self-expression or somehow missing out? Or are you young adult, capable of delaying gratification and working steadily for meaningful, significant goals, with talent, strength, and vigor on loan from God? Do you see yourself in a season of diligent preparation for becoming the kind of man or woman who can embrace greater responsibilities down the road (job, marriage, family, ministry), even as you do good and bring God glory now? Broadly speaking, those are the two visions competing for your heart as a young man or woman in the twenty-first century.” (xxi-xxii)
“These days the entertainment and leisure industry is aggressively marketing its vision of youth culture to you…Lots of people have a vested interest in making you believe that being young is all about having fun, partying, and more or less ignoring life’s responsibilities for as long as possible. It’s a culture of low expectations and endless amusement.” (xxiii; emphasis mine).
“…The Harris brothers [authors of Do Hard Things] write:
…Prior to the late 1800s there were only 3 categories of age: childhood, adulthood, and old age. It was only with the coming of the early labor movement with its progressive child labor laws, coupled with new compulsory schooling laws, that a new category, called adolescence, was invented. Coined by G. Stanley Hall, who is often considered the father of American psychology, “adolescence” identified the artificial zone between childhood and adulthood when young people ceased to be children, but were no longer permitted by law to assume the normal responsibilities of adulthood, such as entering into a trade or fining gainful employment. Consequently, marriage and family had to be delayed as well, and so we invented “the teenager,” an unfortunate creature who had all the yearnings and capabilities of an adult, but none of the freedoms or responsibilities.
Teenage life became a 4-year sentence of continuing primary education and relative idleness known as “high school” (four years of schooling which would be later be repeated in the first two years of college)…Cultivated…was the culture we know today, where young people are allowed, encouraged, and even forced to remain quasi-children for much longer than necessary.” (xxiii-xxiv; emphasis mine)
This section made my blood turn cold. I thought to myself “I KNEW it! I was right all along! High school IS a waste!”
I always wondered why on earth we had to complete “general ed” courses in college when we’d already done it in high school. This quote from the Harris brothers totally answered that question: because high school should NOT exist! College is where the REAL education is! I honestly am frustrated and furious with the childishness of my generation, and I feel the yearnings of adulthood as well: I feel cramped and contained in a category that doesn’t define me! I shouldn’t be here! As I mentioned, I am currently a senior in high school, and I am sitting here writing this review because I HAVE NOTHING to do. I never have any homework and I have straight A’s AND I’m taking an AP course. I took AP Government this past semester and it WAS challenging, which I was EXTREMELY grateful for. Sadly, it was only a semester course and now I am only taking AP Literature, which is a year-long course. And, sadly, it shouldn’t even be called an AP course: I am not challenged at all. 90% of the work assigned is pointless busywork, and the other 10% is actual reading-of-books, essays, and, currently, a research paper, which I finished a few days after it was assigned (I wrote 9 pages in about 2 hours). This is extremely disappointing and almost offensive to me because I WANT to be challenged. I LIKE to have my butt kicked academically. I took AP US History and AP Composition last year and spent every night with over 6 hours of homework, crying and tearing out my hair, and it was AWESOME. I earned A’s in both of those courses and they were EXTREMELY hard to achieve. AP US History especially was a mountain all on its own. I received an A in the course because I spent over 7 hours on the final project, which bumped my grade from the seemingly-permanent B to an A. I received C’s on all of the tests and DBQ’s/essays in that course, and received a 3 on the AP Exam. It was NOT easy. History isn’t my strength, but English is. In AP Composition, my blessing of a teacher Ms. Evans was having us read AND annotate challenging books (one being nearly 600 pages), annotate articles/poems/etc., complete difficult projects, and write essays EVERY SINGLE WEEK. I can’t count the number of essays I wrote and papers I annotated. And I received a 5 on the AP Comp Exam, a 5 being the highest score anyone can earn on any AP Exam. THAT is what an AP course should be like, and what our academics should be like!
I love Mr. Chediak’s analysis of the fool, the sluggard, and the wise (pages xxviii-xxxii).
The fool is lacks sense, is gullible, and has dullness and obstinacy. (pgs. xxviii-xxix)
“Sluggards are lazy: They don’t attend to their responsibilities and so are ultimately overwhelmed by them (Proverbs 6:9-10)…They rationalize their laziness (Proverbs 20:4) and have a generally high and unsubstantiated view of themselves (Proverbs 26:16). It is difficult for them to learn and grow since they think they’re already awesome. Because they lack diligence, they are a nightmare as employees…” (pg., xxix)
“[The wise] are the ones who actively and vigorously give themselves to instruction-not just in classes, but in life.” (pg. xxx)
Fools and sluggards (particularly sluggards) seem to be the ones plaguing our society the most. We should all strive to become wise in order to be examples and to reflect Jesus Christ so others too may rise to their full potential and see Jesus as Someone real, alive, and all-powerful.
Which leads me to my next point.
Mr. Chediak explores arguments from non-believers as well as the biblical truth and the awesomeness of God. (pgs. 6-10).
I especially love how he includes the atheist view and the “spiritual but not religious” view (pg. 12) because I have met people from both these views. The “spiritual but not religious” view is very popular and common today, I feel.
Another helpful section is where he touches on being “tolerant.” (pgs. 16-17) So many times have I heard Christians being called “intolerant” because they won’t support abortion, gay rights, etc.
Alas, this review is getting quite long and I must retire to bed. Typing up all of the quotes and concepts I noted and jotted down would take forever and I don’t have that time! But I will keep the list so that when I buy my own copy I can highlight and annotate. J
Overall, this book receives 5 out of 5 stars and 100/100 on the point scale. In my book, it’s 110% amazing. This is a book I MUST own and I will be sure to have my future children read it, as well as my younger sister, boyfriend (who is currently attending CBU!), and others. Thank you for writing this book Mr. Chediak, and may God bless you!!!
~Amanda
July 22, 2023
I found this book quite applicable as a rising college freshman headed to a 'secular' university. Chediak's style highlights his academic background and practiced essay writing (most chapters had clinchers and robust structure) and it was remarkably engaging.
There were many aspects of this book I thought were extremely valuable - although not particularly novel or unique to this book. Much of the 'classic' advice (go to office hours, get enough sleep, etc.) but also some more nuanced tips (be wary of vaguely-defined syllabi and note that seemingly neutral activities can be negatives if they pull you away from positives). The sections on mistakes #2 (treating college like high school), #3 (not being intentional), #9 (living for grades) and #10 (wasting opportunities) were the ones I found most valuable.
It's also worth noting that while this book has some good points that are usually supported with sound reasoning, there were some parts I thought were lacking in this area, such as "looking for like-minded friends" and "avoiding passive entertainment", as well as his general perspective on adolescence.
Overall, a good book that can apply to a variety of readers.
There were many aspects of this book I thought were extremely valuable - although not particularly novel or unique to this book. Much of the 'classic' advice (go to office hours, get enough sleep, etc.) but also some more nuanced tips (be wary of vaguely-defined syllabi and note that seemingly neutral activities can be negatives if they pull you away from positives). The sections on mistakes #2 (treating college like high school), #3 (not being intentional), #9 (living for grades) and #10 (wasting opportunities) were the ones I found most valuable.
It's also worth noting that while this book has some good points that are usually supported with sound reasoning, there were some parts I thought were lacking in this area, such as "looking for like-minded friends" and "avoiding passive entertainment", as well as his general perspective on adolescence.
Overall, a good book that can apply to a variety of readers.
June 27, 2019
"Thriving at College" covered relevant topics and asked great questions for self-evaluation. Every chapter made me think "My college-bound child could really benefit from reading this." The problem is that it's long--40 pages of valuable preface and introduction you wouldn't want to skip, then 322 numbered pages. It lends itself to a great small group study, but to take one chapter at a time would require 13 weeks, although I think it could be reasonably divided into 6 weeks. Ideally, it would make a great summer small group study prior to senior year in high school, and a nice gift for a graduate you think might read it to the end.
February 9, 2018
Alex Chediak's books is both informed by life experiences and biblical wisdom. Throughout the book he provides consistent biblical references (i.e. verses) to reinforce the principle he is urging the christian student to undertake. It is clearly a perspective shaped by the Bible on how to thrive at college, and to a greater extent the rest of life.
I would highly recommend this book to all students (both senior high school and those in college), as the lessons learnt and advice given in here is invaluable!
I would highly recommend this book to all students (both senior high school and those in college), as the lessons learnt and advice given in here is invaluable!
December 25, 2024
I found this book at a local thrift store, the title intrigued me as I was entering my softmore year of college, and I’m glad I read it! Full of great insight from a professor’s perspective, and as an engineer himself I appreciated his insight on maintaining different levels of prioritization and understanding how our faith grows in college. Solid book that I’d recommend for freshmen or softmores!
April 22, 2024
Easy to read, practical ways of avoiding the most common mistakes made in college.
“ Christianity should make us diligent students, and down the road, faithful employers, good neighbors, and exemplary citizens in any religiously diverse community.”
(Recommended by Tim Challies)
“ Christianity should make us diligent students, and down the road, faithful employers, good neighbors, and exemplary citizens in any religiously diverse community.”
(Recommended by Tim Challies)
July 31, 2019
This was a great book packed with advice for all college students, not necessarily just college freshman. I’m planning on bringing it to school with me in case I need to reference it any point.
July 21, 2022
Read this for research purposes. Really solid advice for any future or current college students; got me questioning my priorities. Wish I knew some of this stuff before my freshman year LOL
August 18, 2024
Even though this book is a little dated, it’s really helpful for newish Christians looking for a little guidance into college
June 7, 2011
For high school graduates everywhere, just a couple months remain before that first year of college kicks off. After the accolades and the fun are over, the sense of accomplishment and new-found responsibility will set in. Then everything that you still have to prepare for and do prior to moving into the dorm will come crashing down. I know, I've been there.
With all the textbooks you'll soon be purchasing, wouldn't it be nice if there was just one textbook for how to survive the college years? Well, now there is. Alex Chediak, a college professor and true "insider", has given us a new book, "Thriving at College". The book is designed for Christian young adults in particular as they prepare for college. Alex doesn't just want you to survive, he hopes to help you thrive.
The book is laid out in a helpful format. It's clear, easy to read, and very practical. He discusses such matters as finances and choosing your major, as well as relational items like how you shouldn't stay too connected with your old high school friends, as that can distract you from your real purpose. He also deals with navigating relationship issues, prioritizing your time and classes, who to befriend, and how much time to spend on your homework -- warning, we're talking a lot of time!
Sprinkled throughout the book are his own personal experiences, real life stories shared from others, questions and answers, and various facts and figures. Did you know that more than 40% of college grads are still living with their parents three years later? Or that 70% of young adults who attended a Protestant church regularly in high school will stop attending church at all for at least one year between the ages of 18 and 22?
Going to college, as a Christian, can really be a test of your faith (as the above statistic indicates). Chediak's book will arm you with practical advice and answers to common criticisms of Christianity. He also offers sound biblical teaching on how to own your own faith.
I've met Alex, and can attest that he's a great guy. He's also written one of the most helpful books on singleness and marriage that I've read (see my review here). His advice on dating and relationships in college is extremely helpful. Alex also speaks from years of experience both in the college setting and in other venues working with Christian young people.
"Thriving at College" covers the whole gamut of the college experience. It truly has something for everyone. Study tips, schedules, eating advice, how to deal with your parents -- all of this and more are addressed. Yet the book isn't very long, and doesn't have to be read in order. The chapter contents are clearly enough indicated that it can be used as a manual, to be referenced when needed. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter allow for its use as a book that parents read along with their children, or for use as a small group study in the summer before college.
I have no hesitation in recommending "Thriving at College" for any high school graduate. It would make a great gift for a graduate you may know. And if you're the soon-to-be college student, use some of that graduation money and pick up a copy of this book. It will be one of the most helpful textbooks you'll buy, and the cheapest!
Disclaimer: This book was provided by Tyndale House Publishers for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.
With all the textbooks you'll soon be purchasing, wouldn't it be nice if there was just one textbook for how to survive the college years? Well, now there is. Alex Chediak, a college professor and true "insider", has given us a new book, "Thriving at College". The book is designed for Christian young adults in particular as they prepare for college. Alex doesn't just want you to survive, he hopes to help you thrive.
The book is laid out in a helpful format. It's clear, easy to read, and very practical. He discusses such matters as finances and choosing your major, as well as relational items like how you shouldn't stay too connected with your old high school friends, as that can distract you from your real purpose. He also deals with navigating relationship issues, prioritizing your time and classes, who to befriend, and how much time to spend on your homework -- warning, we're talking a lot of time!
Sprinkled throughout the book are his own personal experiences, real life stories shared from others, questions and answers, and various facts and figures. Did you know that more than 40% of college grads are still living with their parents three years later? Or that 70% of young adults who attended a Protestant church regularly in high school will stop attending church at all for at least one year between the ages of 18 and 22?
Going to college, as a Christian, can really be a test of your faith (as the above statistic indicates). Chediak's book will arm you with practical advice and answers to common criticisms of Christianity. He also offers sound biblical teaching on how to own your own faith.
I've met Alex, and can attest that he's a great guy. He's also written one of the most helpful books on singleness and marriage that I've read (see my review here). His advice on dating and relationships in college is extremely helpful. Alex also speaks from years of experience both in the college setting and in other venues working with Christian young people.
"Thriving at College" covers the whole gamut of the college experience. It truly has something for everyone. Study tips, schedules, eating advice, how to deal with your parents -- all of this and more are addressed. Yet the book isn't very long, and doesn't have to be read in order. The chapter contents are clearly enough indicated that it can be used as a manual, to be referenced when needed. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter allow for its use as a book that parents read along with their children, or for use as a small group study in the summer before college.
I have no hesitation in recommending "Thriving at College" for any high school graduate. It would make a great gift for a graduate you may know. And if you're the soon-to-be college student, use some of that graduation money and pick up a copy of this book. It will be one of the most helpful textbooks you'll buy, and the cheapest!
Disclaimer: This book was provided by Tyndale House Publishers for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.
April 15, 2014
Thriving at College is an excellent read for both high schoolers who have college in their sights and people who are already attending college. Author Alex Chediak (Engineering professor at Cal Baptist University) tries to help readers make the most out of the college years. He doesn't just want Christians to survive college. He wants them to thrive.
The book is divided up into four parts. The titles for each part are: College Matters, Relationships Matter, Character Matters, and Academics Matter. He begins by looking at some reasons why Christians lose their faith in college. He gives practical advice on how to avoid this pitfall. He does this by dissecting some of the popular secular views that can be found among college professors. (for a more detailed study on this topic, see How to Stay Christian in College by J. Budziszewski). In the next section, Chediak talks about how to maintain good relationships between friends, faculty, and members of the opposite sex during the college years. He challenges the view that college prevents people from having strong friendships as well as romantic relationships. Many people enter the dating realm during the college years. Chediak looks at the right and wrong reasons that people begin dating. He gives advice on how to stay pure in environments that celebrate pre-marital sex. The third part of the book focuses on character. How can we become responsible, trustworthy adults? College can be a great time of maturing if we work at it. In part four, Chediak discusses the importance of being a good student. As Christians, we are to do our best work so that we can bring glory to God. This includes in the classroom. Most people enter college with the mindset of either a) grades don’t matter and college is a time to party or b) I MUST get all A’s or it will be the end of the world! Both of these views are challenged. Chediak tries to help the reader see the importance of working hard to get good grades but not living for grades.
In each of these steps, Chediak gives practical steps to help. He doesn't just give good ideas. He gives advice on how to complete the task. He also writes about how to select the right college, how to make a schedule, how to make a budget, and much more. I highly recommend this book because it deals with a lot of the difficulties of college. It is written in a way that is easy to understand. I believe that my college experience would have been a lot better if I had read this book before college!
Whether you are a part time student or a full time student living on campus, Thriving at College is a great resource.
The book is divided up into four parts. The titles for each part are: College Matters, Relationships Matter, Character Matters, and Academics Matter. He begins by looking at some reasons why Christians lose their faith in college. He gives practical advice on how to avoid this pitfall. He does this by dissecting some of the popular secular views that can be found among college professors. (for a more detailed study on this topic, see How to Stay Christian in College by J. Budziszewski). In the next section, Chediak talks about how to maintain good relationships between friends, faculty, and members of the opposite sex during the college years. He challenges the view that college prevents people from having strong friendships as well as romantic relationships. Many people enter the dating realm during the college years. Chediak looks at the right and wrong reasons that people begin dating. He gives advice on how to stay pure in environments that celebrate pre-marital sex. The third part of the book focuses on character. How can we become responsible, trustworthy adults? College can be a great time of maturing if we work at it. In part four, Chediak discusses the importance of being a good student. As Christians, we are to do our best work so that we can bring glory to God. This includes in the classroom. Most people enter college with the mindset of either a) grades don’t matter and college is a time to party or b) I MUST get all A’s or it will be the end of the world! Both of these views are challenged. Chediak tries to help the reader see the importance of working hard to get good grades but not living for grades.
In each of these steps, Chediak gives practical steps to help. He doesn't just give good ideas. He gives advice on how to complete the task. He also writes about how to select the right college, how to make a schedule, how to make a budget, and much more. I highly recommend this book because it deals with a lot of the difficulties of college. It is written in a way that is easy to understand. I believe that my college experience would have been a lot better if I had read this book before college!
Whether you are a part time student or a full time student living on campus, Thriving at College is a great resource.
September 9, 2011
My little sister starts her freshman year on Monday and I've been thinking about that question a lot this summer. A couple of months ago I was asked to review a copy of Thriving At College and thought, oh this would be a perfect present for my sis. I'd planned to not only read the book but to take notes in the margins with my own insights. Join study groups. Go on road trips. Take fun classes. Don't take an 8AM class. Things like that.
So I opened the book with pen in hand and got ready to write these inspiring notes that I knew my sister would appreciate when she got homesick or needed some loving advice. It didn't work out so well. While Thriving at College was full of good information, it wasn't really what I thought or hoped it would be and not a book that I'll be sending to my sister to read.
Thriving at College is structured in four main sections - College Matters, Relationships Matter, Character Matters, and Academics Matter. Within each of these four sections are subsets of information surrounding a specific common college mistake, things like chucking your faith, distorting dating and romance, living out of balance, and wasting opportunities. There really is a lot of great information contained within each of these sections, and I completely agree with avoiding each of these mistakes.
However, other than making college students aware of these common mistakes (which is great), I didn't really see any practical ways to avoid these mistakes. I was expecting something more similar to 7 Habits for Highly Effective Teens - principles with tools for practical application. Also, I found that there was way too much text that made me just want to skip sections completely. I would have preferred more images, charts, bullets, or other things to break up the continual copy. This book was written for beginning college students who have plenty to do already, they need something short and sweet that will give them practical and useful ways to make it out in the real world.
So overall, good information but not my favorite way of sharing it with readers. 3 stars.
So I opened the book with pen in hand and got ready to write these inspiring notes that I knew my sister would appreciate when she got homesick or needed some loving advice. It didn't work out so well. While Thriving at College was full of good information, it wasn't really what I thought or hoped it would be and not a book that I'll be sending to my sister to read.
Thriving at College is structured in four main sections - College Matters, Relationships Matter, Character Matters, and Academics Matter. Within each of these four sections are subsets of information surrounding a specific common college mistake, things like chucking your faith, distorting dating and romance, living out of balance, and wasting opportunities. There really is a lot of great information contained within each of these sections, and I completely agree with avoiding each of these mistakes.
However, other than making college students aware of these common mistakes (which is great), I didn't really see any practical ways to avoid these mistakes. I was expecting something more similar to 7 Habits for Highly Effective Teens - principles with tools for practical application. Also, I found that there was way too much text that made me just want to skip sections completely. I would have preferred more images, charts, bullets, or other things to break up the continual copy. This book was written for beginning college students who have plenty to do already, they need something short and sweet that will give them practical and useful ways to make it out in the real world.
So overall, good information but not my favorite way of sharing it with readers. 3 stars.
April 27, 2011
Honestly, I don’t expect much from youth inspirational books. Those I’ve browsed seem to be dumbed down and simplified, somehow adding to the all-around marketing hype that pegs young people as fad-addicted party goers and tech consumers in suspended reality, waiting in some sexually charged no-holds-barred stage between childhood and adulthood.
But I’ve read some that have actually inspired me and taught me something new, such as Do Hard Things and… okay, maybe just one so far.
I think, though, that I may be adding to that list. The first few pages of Thriving at College wiped off a bit of my been-there-done-that smugness. With language that thankfully doesn’t underestimate the intelligence of its audience, the book communicates good, solid ideas. It sets your perspective of college straight, which could spell the difference between how you feel on graduation day (if you even get there): excited to start toward your life goals vs. bummed that the party just ended.
Now, I loved my university years. I still feel confident that I maximized my learning there (inside and outside the classroom, for sure!). But flipping through something like Thriving at College, I wish someone had sat me down and talked to me about this stuff so that I didn’t start college thinking it was just a bigger high school campus, a natural transition that didn’t require a choice.
My only beef about this book is that it’s too thick. I remember my university years well enough to know I wouldn’t have slugged through one more textbook than necessary, and Thriving at College is in danger of gathering dust until graduation.
And yes, the title bugs me, too. Either I’m wrong and in and at are perfectly interchangeable in this phrase, or this is an example of how even teachers can still sometimes get an F.
But I’ve read some that have actually inspired me and taught me something new, such as Do Hard Things and… okay, maybe just one so far.
I think, though, that I may be adding to that list. The first few pages of Thriving at College wiped off a bit of my been-there-done-that smugness. With language that thankfully doesn’t underestimate the intelligence of its audience, the book communicates good, solid ideas. It sets your perspective of college straight, which could spell the difference between how you feel on graduation day (if you even get there): excited to start toward your life goals vs. bummed that the party just ended.
Now, I loved my university years. I still feel confident that I maximized my learning there (inside and outside the classroom, for sure!). But flipping through something like Thriving at College, I wish someone had sat me down and talked to me about this stuff so that I didn’t start college thinking it was just a bigger high school campus, a natural transition that didn’t require a choice.
My only beef about this book is that it’s too thick. I remember my university years well enough to know I wouldn’t have slugged through one more textbook than necessary, and Thriving at College is in danger of gathering dust until graduation.
And yes, the title bugs me, too. Either I’m wrong and in and at are perfectly interchangeable in this phrase, or this is an example of how even teachers can still sometimes get an F.
May 3, 2011
Thriving at College is a guide that helps to prepare students for the college life. Alex Chediak is an associate professor at California Baptist University. He teaches physics and engineering. Alex knows the insides and outsides of the college lifestyle. He discussed ten most common mistakes that students make while in college. He has researched and added some statistics to bring light to the issues he has seen. Some of the mistakes included chucking your Faith, refusing to grow up, distorting dating and romance, treating college as if it were high school, and much more. The book will teach you how to work hard and how to find balance in college.
Thriving in College is aimed at students who are considering going to college. I would recommend this book to anyone who is a high school student or a college student. But parents should also read this book in order to help their children succeed in college. If you need a gift for graduation this book could immensely help lead your children down the right path.
I learned to make sure I live in balance every single day. I have to make special time to relax but I need to also work hard on my academics. God requires us to work hard like we are working for him in everything we do. I liked how Alex included scripture and facts to discuss the important of his topics. Alex has helped me to see that I need to make wise choice of friends. He doesn’t want people to forget to keep studying God’s word while you attend college. He doesn’t want you to lose your Faith in college like so many students do. If you are headed to college or already in college get this book it will help you out!
Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book.
Thriving in College is aimed at students who are considering going to college. I would recommend this book to anyone who is a high school student or a college student. But parents should also read this book in order to help their children succeed in college. If you need a gift for graduation this book could immensely help lead your children down the right path.
I learned to make sure I live in balance every single day. I have to make special time to relax but I need to also work hard on my academics. God requires us to work hard like we are working for him in everything we do. I liked how Alex included scripture and facts to discuss the important of his topics. Alex has helped me to see that I need to make wise choice of friends. He doesn’t want people to forget to keep studying God’s word while you attend college. He doesn’t want you to lose your Faith in college like so many students do. If you are headed to college or already in college get this book it will help you out!
Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book.
Read
May 13, 2011When I realized that I was going to receive Thriving at College in NetGalley format, I had second thoughts about reviewing this book. All this changed after I read the Preface. I knew this was going to be a good read and it did not disappoint.
Many of the mistakes students make while in college affect their after-college life and plenty of good knowledge can be learned from this book on how to avoid such mistakes. What I like about the book is the practical tips on the dos and don’ts in college. While not all the tips mentioned in the book applies to everyone especially since the book is pretty US-centric, they are important and should be kept in mind. In Appendix 1 of the book, tips on how to choose a college are given. I found them very helpful and will definitely be keeping them in mind the next time I visit an education fair!
This book is especially handy for those who have yet to go to college and for parents who want to help their kids avoid common mistakes college students make. As the author is someone who has gone to college and who is a college professor, I agree with what Alex and Brett Harris said in the Foreword: Alex Chediak “understands this (the college issue) better than most”. I think that he is certainly in a good position to give college advice.
Overall, Thriving at College is crammed with advice and information. As someone who has yet to go to college, I found it extremely helpful and eye-opening. College sounds like an exciting place to be at, but it is littered with pitfalls that has brought many a person away from his religious roots. However, principles and rules given in Thriving at College will always remain as what they are: principles and rules. It is up to the reader to take up the initiative and act on them.
Many of the mistakes students make while in college affect their after-college life and plenty of good knowledge can be learned from this book on how to avoid such mistakes. What I like about the book is the practical tips on the dos and don’ts in college. While not all the tips mentioned in the book applies to everyone especially since the book is pretty US-centric, they are important and should be kept in mind. In Appendix 1 of the book, tips on how to choose a college are given. I found them very helpful and will definitely be keeping them in mind the next time I visit an education fair!
This book is especially handy for those who have yet to go to college and for parents who want to help their kids avoid common mistakes college students make. As the author is someone who has gone to college and who is a college professor, I agree with what Alex and Brett Harris said in the Foreword: Alex Chediak “understands this (the college issue) better than most”. I think that he is certainly in a good position to give college advice.
Overall, Thriving at College is crammed with advice and information. As someone who has yet to go to college, I found it extremely helpful and eye-opening. College sounds like an exciting place to be at, but it is littered with pitfalls that has brought many a person away from his religious roots. However, principles and rules given in Thriving at College will always remain as what they are: principles and rules. It is up to the reader to take up the initiative and act on them.
March 2, 2012
Thriving At College is written for seniors in high school, but as a shepherd of college students I would recommend it to both leaders and current students. Though a simple read, this book is power packed with principles and guidelines for making the most of your life in college and more importantly into adulthood. Everything from making the transition from high school to finding internships is covered and all done through a Christian worldview.
This book would be an excellent tool for high school ministries looking to help their seniors transition in to college life. With questions at the end of each chapter it would help aid discussion and give young people an insight into what life is like after high school.
For college students this book will be a help and realignment tool on what your doing with your college days. Are you wasting them or making the most of them? This book will remind you why you are doing what you're doing or remind you of areas you may need to make a change.
No matter who reads this book, all will be encouraged to not just do college to God's glory, but all of life. I'm thankful to Alex Chediak for writing a book that seeks to give practical, helpful advice for young people while pointing them back to the cross for their strength, drive, and passion.
This book would be an excellent tool for high school ministries looking to help their seniors transition in to college life. With questions at the end of each chapter it would help aid discussion and give young people an insight into what life is like after high school.
For college students this book will be a help and realignment tool on what your doing with your college days. Are you wasting them or making the most of them? This book will remind you why you are doing what you're doing or remind you of areas you may need to make a change.
No matter who reads this book, all will be encouraged to not just do college to God's glory, but all of life. I'm thankful to Alex Chediak for writing a book that seeks to give practical, helpful advice for young people while pointing them back to the cross for their strength, drive, and passion.
July 18, 2011
This book was magnificent! I am extremely confident going to college after reading this book. The book covers just about everything there is to know to thrive in college. The author quotes multiple Bible verses throughout the book illustrating God's point of view on topics; he also quotes various articles and novels which demonstrate the author's credibility,research, and the amount of effort he put into this book. I agreed with nearly everything Chediak wrote. This is an essential book to read for any Christian going into college. College is a place where our faith is going to be challenged in incredible ways and Chediak provides practical ways in dealing with this. One of my favorite aspects of the book was the idea that we need to "grow up" rather than just "grow older". We are adults and need to take control of out own lives now. Reading this book really helped me take that large step from "teenager" to adulthood! I recommend this book to all Christians going into college because it has great and inspiring advice that will significantly change life!
July 2, 2013
I won this book on Goodreads. Present & future college students, parents, and college instructors, especially those who teach freshmen, could all benefit from the suggestions in this book. None of the suggestions are new, but they are backed up with specific stories to underscore the points. For instance, college students are urged to organize their time, choose friends wisely, adhere to a schedule, and limit cell phone use, especially to parents. All of these suggestions would help the typical college student to mature. The book does frequently use Biblical quotes, which may/may not inspire the readers. Even so, the stories and points are well worth the read. College requires time, effort, and money, so the opportunity should not be wasted.
September 3, 2011
Hindsight is always 20/20.
I read through this with my youth group's Class of 2011, and while the intended effect was to prepare them for their next four years of college, I found myself really drawn to reminiscing on all the ways that I both wasted and excelled in the chances given to me during my own undergraduate experience. Reading this has put me in a posture of reflection that will serve as an impetus for future endeavors-- academic or otherwise-- to be pursued for God's glory and not my own.
I read through this with my youth group's Class of 2011, and while the intended effect was to prepare them for their next four years of college, I found myself really drawn to reminiscing on all the ways that I both wasted and excelled in the chances given to me during my own undergraduate experience. Reading this has put me in a posture of reflection that will serve as an impetus for future endeavors-- academic or otherwise-- to be pursued for God's glory and not my own.
July 8, 2011
I highly recommend this book, in particular to college students or those about to enter college, but also to parents of college students and students who will be entering college in a couple years (high school juniors, for example).
The author does a great job of giving a well-balanced view of every important aspect of college life: academic, spiritual, extra-curricular activities, finances, and free time.
I will be asking by kids to read this book and it will be a frequent gift to high school grads I know.
The author does a great job of giving a well-balanced view of every important aspect of college life: academic, spiritual, extra-curricular activities, finances, and free time.
I will be asking by kids to read this book and it will be a frequent gift to high school grads I know.
August 20, 2012
My college years were meaningful and unforgettable. They were full of ups and downs, victories and losses, joys and pains. It was a season where I owned my faith, developed myself, and enjoyed deep friendships. Now, I’m a proud graduate.
But even as a graduate, I still find Alex Chediak’s Thriving at College (Tyndale, 2011) tremendously interesting. Perhaps because I wanted to write a book on the college life. Or because I simply find it deeply relevant.
Read the rest of the review at Zoy Sauce Etc.
But even as a graduate, I still find Alex Chediak’s Thriving at College (Tyndale, 2011) tremendously interesting. Perhaps because I wanted to write a book on the college life. Or because I simply find it deeply relevant.
Read the rest of the review at Zoy Sauce Etc.
June 5, 2011
A very helpful book. Lots of practical advice about everything from studying habits to relationships with the opposite sex - and all from a gospel-centred Christian worldview. It answered a lot of my own questions and also addressed a lot of behaviour I see in other students. I think every college student should have a chance to read this book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews