As Director of Admissions for Horizon U, Jacki Curtis is often the first contact for a student candidate. Jacki recently graduated from CCBCi (now CCBC of Horizon U) with a major in Biblical Studies and lived on campus for two years. Her story reflects the goal of Horizon U that “wisdom for eternity, leadership for life” be gained along with each student’s diploma or degree.

Jacki, how would you describe your faith in Christ before attending CCBCHU?

I was going through… a “rebel stage”. For about a year of my life, I decided to walk away from the Lord. I didn’t necessarily stop believing in Him, but I chose not to follow Him. I made many bad decisions that resulted in major consequences. With where I was headed, I could have easily thrown my life down the drain. This season of my life pushed me to make a change. Soon after is when I decided to attend CCBC.

Not knowing what to expect that first year or so away at school, what were the biggest surprises for you?

Living away from home was an easy transition for me. I enjoyed getting connected in my first couple of weeks on campus. Also, I enjoyed academics and was excited to begin my studies at the Bible college. The biggest surprise for me stemmed from my walk with the Lord — I knew that there would be growth, but was unaware of the transitional work He was going to do in me. Many students warned me about the “breaking down” year. I didn’t know what that meant until I began to experience it for myself. Through many circumstances, the Lord slowly began to empty me of myself and in return fill me with Himself. It was a hard and painful process, but completely worth every moment. I didn’t fully understand the sweetness of walking alongside the Lord until I began my studies at this Bible college. I quickly began to realize all that I had been missing for most of my life. Truths about grace, freedom, justification, sanctification, redemption, and many more began to open my eyes to who He is. For the very first time, I felt a genuine desire to follow Him in every aspect of my life.

What can you tell us about making friends there, your fellowship with other students and interacting with the church body that shares the same campus?

I could talk for days about the types of relationships I formed at CCBC. With it being a small campus, I instantly felt integrated and loved by the people on campus. Many of the students quickly became family to me. Apart from the Bible college itself, many people at the church stepped into my life and helped shape who I am now. From the women who mentored me during my two years, to the men I looked up to, I’d say that I built lasting and fruitful relationships here on campus.

Read Part 2 Here