This is the last of the five week series of interviewing students asking them the simple question, what makes Pfeiffer University so unique? As a bit of a recap of who all has been interviewed, during the first week a senior, Santi Moar, was interviewed, then Alex Stoiljkovic a junior, Megan Walsh a sophomore, and Madalyn a freshman. Now, as I was deciding whether I wanted to end the series with Madalyn or if I wanted to continue it, I decided it was important to include the perspective of a commuter, as their experience with Pfeiffer as a whole is different from those who are residential students.
The last student I interviewed is Patrick Barnes, who is a sophomore commuter majoring in Computer Information and systems. He is from Salisbury, NC and lives in Salisbury with his wife and is involved with Student Government Association or S.G.A. on campus. How I met Patrick was through our mutual friends and since then he has become like an older brother to me and for that, I have to thank him, especially since I am an only child.
Patrick found out about Pfeiffer through not only having a friend who graduated from here but also because his mom works at Pfeiffer. When coming into Pfeiffer as a new student can be a big transition, to begin with, that comes with fears that can worry the student. This transition was the main thing that worried Patrick as he would be going from full time with the military to being mainly a college student. But the main thing that he was most excited for was being able to have this opportunity to get this education and to better himself within the four years he is spending at Pfeiffer.
As a freshman last year the main thing that surprised him about Pfeiffer was how approachable the staff and professors are. This is something that also still amazes me today as I get to know the professors and staff on this campus even better. The staff and professors are always willing to help you with whatever you need. Whether it be just needing someone to talk to, but also if you need a place to do some homework. They will have the conversations with you that go past just how your classes are going.
Another part that is a reoccurring thing that almost every person I have interviewed has mentioned that makes Pfeiffer so unique is the class sizes and the friendliness of the staff. But another thing that Patrick mentioned that I believe is important to highlight is the large number of opportunities Pfeiffer gives us as students to meet new people and network as well.
I hope through this series and the stories of a variety of students has shown not only how unique this campus is, but also how unique the student body is. Pfeiffer is a place where we were a Pfamily, a place that will force you out of your comfort zone in your education and your faith. Pfeiffer is a place where no matter your background you can call home.