The Experience.
As he enters his last semester at Bluffton University, senior J. Tyler Chapman of Shreve, Ohio, reflects on the experiences he has had on campus. Participating in soccer, intramural sports and other campus activities have all shaped Tyler’s college experience. The relaxed and trusting atmosphere has also made Bluffton a special place to be. “It reminds me a lot of home,” he says. One example of trust that sticks out to Tyler is the honor system which is most evident when professors leave the room during an examination. The student is on his/her honor not to give or receive aid during testing periods and is asked to write and sign a pledge on every examination paper. It is understood that the spirit of the academic honor system should pervade all areas of campus life, along with the community of respect. This concept has made Tyler feel as though he is a trusted adult in the academic community.
Getting Involved.
While classes and studies take up a good portion of the day, Tyler feels that it is important to make time for fun. “I make time to participate in intramurals so that I can get out and enjoy myself along with others. Intramurals and student life are a great way to make new friends and have a good time.” Everything from intramural basketball to slow-pitch softball to flag football is offered throughout the year with t-shirts and prizes going out to the winning teams. Ultimate Frisbee is a favorite among students and is played year-round, three times a week. Through intramurals, various student organizations and his classes, Tyler has been “meeting new people and making friendships that will last a lifetime.”
A Special Place.
Through conversations with professors and various courses at Bluffton, Tyler has begun to see where his art major can take him. Tyler notes his favorite instructor is assistant professor of art Phil Sugden. “Phil is a great professor and he knows his line of work well. He always entertains us as we work on our projects, and he also gets to know each of his students individually.” With the approachable professors, a close-knit community, a trusting and respectful atmosphere and numerous organizations and activities to get involved in, Tyler says that Bluffton will always be a special place for him. “I have made so many friends, been involved in so many different activities and had the opportunity to travel with the college. Bluffton is definitely a special place for me.”
