Students' Reflections on their time at UNC and PCM

PCM has been one of the most fantastic experiences of my life. Never before have I been befriended by so many kind, intelligent people so quickly. These people, whom I have known for only three months, seem like my very best childhood friends. The leaders and upperclassmen of PCM are very sincere and knowledgeable, and I have truly enjoyed getting to know them. I like having opportunities to do service projects such as Habitat for Humanity, canned food drives, and especially the mission trips to Nicaragua and Haiti. It really is a wonderful program.

 

                                                            Frank Wilson, ‘06 f rom Elizabeth City, NC         

      

Feelings are so hard to put into words, and I would have to say that PCM is not a place or a thing to be, but more a feeling. PCM has become my new youth group and more importantly, my new home away from home. I came to PCM this past fall as a freshman and fell in love with the program and people. The new friendships I have formed are for a lifetime and I spend most of my time with these wonderful people. The highlight of my week has become the Thursday night programs. As I walk through the door, I am met with hugs that can make anyone’s week . The student led praise music and worship programs have helped me grow in my faith. Lastly, PCM is a place to have fun whether it is through games, get togethers, or service projects; I can not remember a time when I was not having fun at PCM.

Becky Call, ’06 from Mocksville , NC

“I knew before I came to college that finding a place to worship would be very important to me because I’ve always felt at home in a religious house. PCM has been the home-away-from- home that I sought. I felt comfortable instantly there, and it’s where I’ve met so many of my closest friends. The atmosphere is relaxed and open—fostering prayer and discussions that aren’t easily forgotten. I go to PCM to study, to relax, and to praise God in a wonderful community of my peers. PCM extends much further than the church doors. I eat lunch with friends from PCM, go out with them on weekends, join them to help build a Habitat house on Saturday mornings, and catch them for brief conversations during class changes. PCM has been more than I ever thought it could be. Through it, I am supported and my faith is allowed to grow and be made stronger. PCM is home.”

                          Lydia Garlikov '06 from Birmingham, Alabama

                                                           

Presbyterian Campus Ministries is a gathering together of familiar friends, if not family, both old and new.  It is the gathering of the faith in the love and conviction of our neighbors.  It is an outreaching hand of service into the community at large.  It is a reflection of personal spiritual growth and a desire for self-improvement.  PCM lets me exercise my faith in a fun, familiar, and comfortable environment.

Tyler Duckworth, ’07 fom Morganton , NC

PCM is one of the best organizations I’ve become involved with here at UNC. .Ever since I went to Montreat with the group, I have felt like part of a family. Amongst the rush of college life, (the classes, the games, the homework), PCM is my way of slowing it all down and remembering that the reason I am here is because of the Lord. We sing together, eat together, learn together, pray together, and hug like crazy. I can’t wait until next Thursday night!

Anna Glasgow, ’08 from Salisbury , NC

From the second I was hit with a projectile peanut from the Presbyterian Campus Ministry table at UNC's Fall Fest, I knew that I wanted to join. My initial reaction to being greeted with enthusiastic hugs and high-fives at the first social event was- "wow, these kids are crazy".
And I maintain this statement.  I have also come to appreciate that this craziness, though often manifesting itself in eccentric skits and spontaneous activities, is simply our original way of demonstrating our passion for God and zeal for living Christ-centered lives.  PCM has
provided me with a community of affectionate, intelligent, and spirited people who not only make me laugh, but also shape my faith and guide me closer to knowing God.  So, as bizarre as it sounds, I feel blessed to have been, several months ago, the target of that well-aimed peanut!

Hayley White ,’08 from Littleton , CO

PCM is my home away from home.  It feeds me, loves me, teaches me and cares for me.  It's not just a group of people or a place to gather and glorify God, but it's an emotion.  PCM is a never-ending feeling of joy and satisfaction that puts me at ease during a hectic week, and it's a way of living.  Through the hugs and the smiles, it's an uplifting source of energy and grace.  The people I have met through PCM are friends that I will cherish throughout my life, and they are people that will help guide me along my personal faith journey.  Each of us has something to offer to one another, and with this circular system of learning we all change and grow.

                    Stephanie Newton, ’08 from Severna Park , MD