April 2, 2026 by

There are many joys that come with the big move to college, but it can still be an overwhelming experience. However, as the newness and chaos of the first semester abates, things quickly start to feel settled. As the time goes on, you will find that Cedarville becomes a home away from home.  

So how is Cedarville different after that first semester? Following your first semester at Cedarville, you will find yourself knowing your way around campus, you will gain your confidence academically, you will find yourself greeted by many familiar faces around campus, and you will find yourself in love with your new home!  

Difference #1: You Know Where You’re Going 

When you first move into Cedarville, it can be quite confusing trying to navigate your way around campus.  

All of the abbreviations (SSC, BTS, ENS, etc.) can feel difficult to memorize. All of the buildings seem to blend together. Which of those buildings is Apple? Which of those buildings is Milner? Where even is Johnson Hall?  

With just a little bit of time and experience venturing throughout campus, you will begin to feel like an expert who confidently knows the best routes to class and the fastest way to the SSC from your dorm room. Who knows, maybe you’ll even be able to navigate your way through all of the interconnected hallways in the ENS! 

Difference #2: You Gain Your Confidence Academically 

One of the biggest worries students have when coming to college is whether they will be able to handle the academic workload that comes with a college degree. Although each semester is different in its workload and pressures, you will grow each semester in your sense of confidence in your ability to get the work done and do it well.  

You will get a feel for how you best function as a student, develop routines that work best for you, find study habits that allow you to do your best work, and find out where your academic strengths and weaknesses lie.  

Though it can certainly be daunting to face a college workload for the first time, with a little experience and some time spent putting into practice the strategies that you learn in your first semester, you will be navigating your work like a professional! 

Difference #3: You Keep Seeing Familiar Faces Around Campus 

I remember one of the big stressors plaguing me when I first moved to Cedarville was that there were new and unfamiliar faces everywhere I went.  

When you first move to college, a majority of those you are encountering on a day-to-day basis will be complete strangers. While this can be exciting, especially for those who lean more toward the extroverted side, it can also be uncomfortable for those who are more introverted.  

But the more time you spend on Cedarville’s campus, the more those faces find names and personalities to match them. And these new friends are arguably one of the best parts of the Cedarville experience! 

Difference #4: You Find Yourself Falling in Love With Your New Home 

Not everyone will fall in love with Cedarville the moment they step on campus. It takes time to get used to living somewhere new. However, as time goes by, I would also argue that it is very hard for one to avoid falling in love with this special place.  

I know I am definitely biased, but I would say that Cedarville is one of the most amazing places that I have ever been. It is not necessarily the cornfields, the lake, the amazing courses, the phenomenal professors, or the fruitful friendships that make Cedarville a home to so many; it is God’s presence and work that is taking place in and through His people.  

God is using Cedarville to further His kingdom and proclaim His glory among the nations, and Cedarville students are able to experience the sweetness of these truths as they take part in God’s mission and receive training to go forth from this place and do just that.  

While few will make Cedarville their permanent home on Earth, Cedarville is a temporary home to so many students, and it is hard to not absolutely fall in love with this place for however long it is that God will have you at Cedarville.  

The first semester at college can sometimes be confusing or overwhelming. However, as you take each day step-by-step, every day will get more enjoyable and rewarding. Each day, you will find Cedarville is becoming your home away from home, a sweet place of growth and encouragement in the Lord. Welcome home! 

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