More than 1,000 students began arriving on campus Friday, August 21, 2009 and immediately started their transition to a new home at Biola University. Greeted by Associated Students, Student Orientation Leaders, Resident Assistants and other student leadership organizations, the move-in was made lighter by the extra hands that included Biola President Barry H. Corey.

Corey, along with other members of the President’s Administrative Council, helped move students into the residence halls Friday afternoon alongside the student leaders. Friday concluded with an official welcome to new students and their families from Corey, his wife Paula Corey, and the Biola admissions staff that had led the students throughout their admissions process.

“Friday evening was full of heartfelt exchanges and silly moments of fun between president Corey and the undergraduate admissions staff as we welcomed new students and their families to Biola,” said Andre Stephens, senior director of undergraduate admissions. “Students were encouraged and reminded that the Lord had brought them here for a purpose.”

Orientation commenced Saturday morning with a lively and humorous drama representation of Biola’s traditions, code of conduct and idiosyncrasies, performed by Student Orientation Services (SOS) leaders in Sutherland Hall. As students gathered with their SOS cohort groups across campus after the event, one of Biola’s most entertaining traditions ensued where students were asked to express their emotions through shaping a pipe cleaner.

Saturday ended with one of Biola’s most memorable and significant experiences for new students and their families on Metzger Lawn – the evening communion service, often the evening families return home. Beginning with worship and an introduction, Corey spoke to the audience about his journey to Biola, telling the tale of how him and his oldest son Anders drove cross-country from their home in Boston to their new home in Southern California. He spoke of the challenges, joys and apprehensions he had then, relating to some of the feelings students may have now.

Corey said to live by confidence, not certainty. He encouraged students to live by faith, not by sight. After his message, students were invited to give brief testimonials about their journey to Biola.

After multiple students shared, the night ended with worship, communion and students huddled praying with their families.

Student orientation events continued in the days following.

Convocation held at 9:30 a.m. in Chase Gymnasium on Wednesday, August 26, 2009 officially inaugurated the academic semester. With great fervor and sincere excitement Corey welcomed Biola students and faculty to another year.

"I want you to know how much I believe in you and your big dreams," said Corey.

Corey shared about a dinner he and his wife had recently with Biola graduates and how they are making a difference in the world. He told the students that they have joined a student body that has the capacity to change the world. Corey discussed John 15:7 and how students must abide by in the vine and remain in Jesus Christ, therefore making big dreams possible.

"As we begin this academic year, let us resolve to be a community that believes with conviction and courage,” said Corey. “For as we do, God’s glory is going to show up in this place in ways that will revive our hearts and call us to new challenges and courageous ideas in service to our Lord."

As Biola students begin classes today, Wednesday, August 26, 2009,they have been encouraged in love and support and will be uplifted by the surrounding community towards spiritual and intellectual growth.

Written by Jenna Bartlo, Media Relations Coordinator. Jenna can be reached at (562) 777-4061 or through email at jenna.l.bartlo@biola.edu.