The Institute Blog

Thoughts on Jesus, Education, and Life from Faculty, Students & Grads

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S2E26: College Conversations Podcast - “Will College Cure My Loneliness?” (Transcript)

Join Institute for God professors Jeff Sherrod, Laurie Kagay and headmaster Gregg Garner as they explore the issue of loneliness among college students, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. They emphasize the importance of feeling seen and heard, integrating into community, and recognizing cultural values to combat isolation.

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S2E25: What Can a Small School Do that a Large School Can't?

This podcast focuses on the differences between small and large colleges, particularly in the context of Bible colleges and Christian higher education. President Gregg Garner, Laurie Kagay, and Jeff Sherrod, explore how school size impacts factors such as facilities, faculty, student-faculty relationships, and the overall college experience.

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S2E23: College Conversations Podcast - “What Is ‘Summer Melt’ & How Do I… Not?” (Transcript)

Join Institute for God Professors Jeff Sherrod, Laurie Kagay, and Gregg Garner as they explore the "summer melt" phenomenon where students accepted to college do not show up in the fall.

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S2E22: College Conversations Podcast - “What I Learned On Mission Abroad & Why I Want To Go Again! - Part Two” (Transcript)

Join Institute for God professors Jeff Sherrod, Laurie Kagay and headmaster Gregg Garner as they discusses with Institute student; Jacob Oliveira his summer internship mission trip to Uganda, emphasizing intentional planning and transformative impact on one's relationship with God.

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S2E11: College Conversations Podcast - “Access & Equity: Reshaping Biblical Education Globally” (Transcript)

President Gregg Garner, Jeff Sherrod, and Laurie Kagay highlight the importance of biblical literacy and critical thinking in studying the Bible. They address the need for sustainable transformation and genuine education for leaders and congregations in the developing world.

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College Conversations, Choosing A College Website Contributor College Conversations, Choosing A College Website Contributor

S2E8 College Conversations Podcast: Will Anyone Hire Me with my Bible Degree? (Summary & Transcript)

In this episode of College Conversations, Jeff Sherrod, President Gregg Garner, and VP of Enrollment and Marketing Laurie Kagay discuss how colleges prepare students for the workforce. They explore the disconnect between graduates' readiness and employers' expectations, highlighting the importance of practical experiences and skills beyond a degree. The podcast also touches on the Institute for GOD's innovative approaches to addressing this issue.

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S2E5 College Conversations Podcast Transcript: “Does anyone do Discipleship Like Jesus Anymore?” Part 2 (Transcript)

Gregg, Jeff, and Laurie discuss the topic of discipleship on college campuses and the various programs available. They highlight the misconception that discipleship is solely about one's relationship with God and emphasize the importance of interactions with others, and college as the premier venue for discipleship (even above church). Listen and check out what cooperation is necessary between churches and colleges for discipleship to occur effectively.

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S2E2 College Conversations Podcast: “Why College is one of your Most Important Life Decisions” Transcript

President Gregg Garner discusses biblical college education’s current and future relevance with Institute faculty Jeff Sherrod, Benjamin Reese, and Laurie Kagay. They address the challenges and benefits of a faith-based degree, its influence on career paths, and its role in preparing students for a dynamic job market. A crucial conversation for Gen Z students and their parents considering higher education.

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College Conversations, Missions, Choosing A College Website Contributor College Conversations, Missions, Choosing A College Website Contributor

S2E1 College Conversations Podcast: Biblical Education - Where’s it Headed? (Transcript)

President Gregg Garner discusses biblical college education’s current and future relevance with Institute faculty Jeff Sherrod, Benjamin Reese, and Laurie Kagay. They address the challenges and benefits of a faith-based degree, its influence on career paths, and its role in preparing students for a dynamic job market. A crucial conversation for Gen Z students and their parents considering higher education.

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College Conversations, Missions, Choosing A College Website Contributor College Conversations, Missions, Choosing A College Website Contributor

College Conversations S1 Finale: Third World Travel - The Ultimate Learning Experience

In a special episode recorded during a break from filming The Institute’s feature on The College Tour, Gregg Garner, Jeff Sherrod, and Laurie Kagay are joined by show host Alex Boylan. Alex, an avid advocate of higher education, travel, and adventure, shares his perspective on why spending time abroad is an integral part of a student’s education. Tune in to learn about the unparalleled learning opportunities that travel offers and why it's a must for students seeking a well-rounded educational experience.

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College Conversations Season 1, Episode 10: Professional Development: A New Era - Announcing The Institute’s ProDev Program (Transcript)

Join Gregg Garner, Jeff Sherrod, Benjamin Reese, and Laurie Kagay in an exciting announcement of The Institute's Professional Development (ProDev) program. This episode sheds light on how the ProDev program provides Institute students with a unique Christian workplace environment. Here, students can enhance their occupational skills, graduate debt-free, and step into the professional world with both experience and a job offer in hand. This conversation is key for anyone interested in how faith and professional development can be seamlessly integrated in an educational setting.

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College Conversations S1E7: Gap Years - Life Changing Break or Delayed Future? (Transcript)

Gregg Garner, Jeff Sherrod, and Laurie Kagay are joined by Josh Beers, President and Founder of OneLife, a gap year program operating across the US. In this discussion, “Coach Beers” delves into the importance of discipleship and the distinct advantages a gap year provides for students uncertain about their future steps. This episode is particularly insightful for those considering a break from traditional academic paths to explore personal growth and vocational clarity,

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College Conversations Season 1, Episode 2: The Big College Debate - Smart Investment or Financial Trap? (Podcast Transcript)

Join Gregg Garner, Jeff Sherrod, and Laurie Kagay as they address a crucial question facing today's students: Is college worth the cost? In an era where college enrollments have significantly declined post-COVID, with over a million students opting out, this episode explores the reasons behind this shift. The trio discusses the financial aspects of higher education and evaluates its value in the contemporary educational landscape. This conversation is vital for anyone considering the balance between the costs and benefits of a college education in today's world.

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