Real Learning

Matt Myrick, Oak Hills Christian College’s financial aid director began the 2017/2018 Oak Hills Scholarship chapel with a thank-you to all the generous supporters:

Why did you choose Addictions Counseling as a major?

I am passionate about helping people who are struggling with drug addiction. Consequently, getting my major as a Substance Abuse Counselor really equipped me to adequately serve and save lives that could have been destroyed by the disease of addiction.

What would your ideal career path look like and what are your plans after graduation?

My ideal job would involve training other Chemical Dependency Counselors in becoming cross-culturally competent. During my senior year at Oak Hills, I've had the privilege to speak at the Minnesota Association of Resources for Recovery and Chemical Health (MARRCH), where I discussed how addiction treatment professionals could better work with Afro-Caribbean immigrants. 

After Graduation, I traveled to Haiti to assess the drug addiction problem, and develop a treatment program that will meet the needs of the people struggling with drugs addiction over there. Currently, I am working towards certification and licensure in my field.

What was your major/degree and why did you choose it?

I initially came to Oak Hills to get a 1 year bible certificate so I could assist with a youth investment ministry on the Iron Range. Towards the end of the school year I was encouraged by many professors to consider staying for Pastoral Ministries program.

"Please read the syllabus carefully before Wednesday, along with chapter one," a professor would say on the first day of class. Some professors would have students sign the back of the syllabus, and some would even hand out a syllabus quiz!

Over the course of next week Oakies will be hustling and bustling trying to turn in their final papers, and studying for final exams. Students will be spotted late at night in the library munching on sugary snacks, chugging caffeinated drinks, and roaming the hallway dragging their half-asleep bodies like zombies.

A major is a specific subject area that students specialize in. Typically, between 25% to 50% of the courses you’ll take in Oak Hills will be in your major or related to it. But how soon do you have to choose the major? Will it determine the rest of your life? We're here to provide more information and ease your mind.