Five Things I’ll Miss About CCU
A Senior’s Reflection on Colorado Christian University
Colorado Christian University is a tiny university tucked into the suburbs of Denver that cherishes Conservative, Christian ideals. That is all I knew before I committed to attending CCU. Now, almost two years later, I am walking out with so much wisdom, knowledge, and a better grasp of what being a Christian means. CCU played a huge role in shaping this understanding, and I will carry those lessons with me throughout life, confident that what I’ve gained from this school will continue to make a meaningful impact wherever I go.
- The Community
From the moment that I moved in, I knew that this place and these people were different. I hugged my roommate before we even unpacked, and that instant connection set the tone. Living in the row during those sweltering first weeks meant open doors and fast friendships. My pod became my people. My neighbors turned into bonus roommates. These friends have shaped me, challenging me to grow as a student, a friend, and a believer. I’ll never forget spontaneous road trips to Buc-ee’s with Laken and Katie, or our Super Bowl party where we had so much fun talking that we barely watched the football game. These moments are just two of hundreds of memories that I have with my friends, and I will always cherish the people that CCU has gifted me.
- The Professors and Classes
When CCU says your education matters, they mean it. Every professor, whether in my general education classes or my major classes, has poured into me with care and intention. They’ve answered my endless questions, offered thoughtful feedback, and prepared me for life beyond graduation. I’m especially grateful to the communication faculty. Professor Pahlau’s passion for public relations sparked my own. Dr. Badzinski taught me to communicate with grace, as Jesus would. And Coach Stainbrook’s passion for design and the Gospel inspired me to share my faith creatively. These people have and will continue to play an integral role in my career, and more importantly, my life.
- The Caf
Yes, I know it’s controversial, but I’m going to miss the Caf. Not just for the food, but for the experience. Every evening at 5 p.m., my friends and I would claim our unofficial table beside “Near and Far,” grab our plates, and dive into conversation. We shared our highs, lows, and the funny moments in between. It felt like communion, breaking bread and walking through life together. We would gather, open our hearts to one another, and peer through the Caf windows, watching the leaves fall, the snow gather, and the spring flowers blossom. This area of campus holds many of my sweetest memories, some of which I will cherish forever.
- The Views
Coming from Texas, where hills are rare, the Colorado landscape took my breath away. The mountains, the Armstrong Center in the snow, the balcony sunsets, and evergreen trees, all of it. It all reminded me of Psalms 121: “I lift my eyes up to the mountains, where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of Heaven and Earth.” These views became sacred to me, a backdrop for hikes, drives, and quiet moments of awe. And no, you still won’t catch this Texas girl on the ski slopes.
- The Coffee Shops
Finally, if CCU taught me anything, it’s that Colorado people love their coffee. My roommate was a barista, so our dorm brewed over 2,000 shots of espresso in one school year. From the Coug Den to Mango Tree to Humble House, I was never short on caffeine or cozy study spots. I’ll miss the ritual of our morning cups of coffee and the 3 p.m. pick-me-ups. Going home might mean less coffee, but maybe I’ll finally grow taller (if you know, you know).
This place. These people. It will always be home, no matter where I live. I pray that future students see the same beauty that I have seen and feel the same love that I have felt. Thank you, CCU, for the memories, the laughter, and the growth. I will carry it all with me, wherever I go.
