Rickey Eppes John Jones Owen May John Phillips Omicrons anticipate graduation F or students at the Harding School of Biblical Studies, a typical school day was full of classes and activities. Classes began at 8 a.m., Tuesday through Friday. On weekends, students were encouraged to travel and be involved in field work. Each course met daily for one hour and twenty minutes, with a ten minute break between classes. Like Harding, HSBS had its own mandatory chapel from 11:00 to 11:30 in the morning. Lunch break lasted from 11:30-1:00, and classes were dismissed at 3:50. HSBS students followed strict rules for dress, behavior, and class attendance. Tardies were strongly discouraged, and absences were not allowed. Also, there were limits on the number of hours students could work. Students were required to participate in at least three evangelistic campaigns during training. In the 19891990 academic year, students took domestic campaigns to Hot Springs, Morrilton, and McDill, Ok. During the summer, students traveled to London, England, and Sterling, Scotland. Not all activities revolved around the classroom, however. A social club, the Crusaders, was formed to allow students to participate in intramural activities. An annual Christmas party and class banquet allowed students to mingle outside of the classroom environment. Upon completion of the program, students began working in the ministry or enrolled in another school to earn their degree in religion. For students in the secondyear Omicron class, additional school was the last thing they wanted after the grueling schedule of HSBS. "I plan on taking the associate minister position at my home church in Bono, Ark.," said Gary Cremeens. "I may decide to get a degree later, but I need a break. HSBS is really intense, and it's easy to let it get to you." Ray Anderson, 33, planned to get his Bible degree at Harding, and look for a church after graduation in 1992. "This is something I have desired since I was 15 years old," said Anderson. "Everything just came together. Harding is a great place to start." But as Omicron members approached completion of their studies at HSBS, they easily expressed the fond feelings they held for the program, their teachers, and their friends. "Really, the description of the program in the brochure doesn't do service to what HSBS is all about," said Anderson. "There is the joy of being in the school and the frustrations of an accelerated program. It really puts you to the test and makes you stronger for doing the Lord's work. I have really enjoyed it." For fellow student Gary Cremeens, feelings about the program were similar. "The classes were exceptional," he said. "The sermon prep class was particularly helpful. And the Christian Evidences class and the missions classes really opened my eyes." The relationships formed between the students and teachers were especially meaningful to the Omicron class. "You have to rely on others to get through the program," said Anderson. "The friendships will last a lifetime." Gary Cremeens agreed, and said "The love and concern that teachers have for students was great. It was nice to be able to get close, and lean on others when you had problems." Cremeens paused briefly, and then said, "It's going to be tough to leave on August 4. It's going to be one of the hardest days of my life." Kathleen Eyman HSBS 217
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