Columbia International University kicked off the spring semester with “Rebash,” a New Year's-themed party. Donuts and mocktails in hand, the students celebrated each other’s arrival after a well-deserved break for the holidays. Hosted at the Jones Center, the hall was filled with festive decorations, delicious sweets, and a mix of formal- and casual-dressed students. Also present was a slideshow displaying 2023’s best moments, which included last fall’s move-in day, the Luau party, the House Throwdown, and a few of the other House Collective events.

As I mingled with familiar faces, I sensed that many were eager for the start of the new semester. While freshmen are gearing up for their second semester, many upperclassmen are preparing for their last few months at CIU.

Trying to get a feel for the mindset of the seniors heading into 2024, I posed the question “What are your goals and aspirations for the semester?”

“I just want to enjoy the remaining time I have here at CIU,” Igor Eduardo stated. ”I hope to spend time with friends and make the most out of every moment.”

Finishing the race was also the focus for Student Government Association (SGA) President Miles Raven.

“My goal is to finish this last semester strong both academically, spiritually, and in my role working in the SGA,” Raven said. “I just want to finish well.”

Raven did an excellent job of leading the student body through the highs and lows of the fall semester, which saw CIU’s 100th-anniversary celebration, but also the tragic passing of Athletics Director Darren Richie.

The importance of developing campus community will therefore be extremely important this semester, and the Rebash party was the perfect start to a year filled with much hope and potential.

Higher learning. Deeper faith. A Christ-centered community on campus and online. Apply now or request information on enrollment at CIU by contacting Admissions at (803) 807-5024 or admissions@ciu.edu.