In these uncertain and difficult times, probably the last thing on your mind is the state of Bethlehem College & Seminary admissions. There is no dashboard with live updates of all of our accepted students, or the number of students per state, for you to check on daily. Nevertheless, Bethlehem has adapted every aspect of our operations to the new realities, and I’m glad for the opportunity to share some of what we’ve been doing in the admissions department and some new ways for you to experience our school in this unique season.
On Wednesday, March 11, when the Executive Council reached our decision to move all classes online for two weeks, we hoped it would be a temporary and precautionary measure. One week later it was clear that we needed to move online for the rest of the semester, and the admissions team would need to transition all of our activities strictly online. In-person visits are one of the most important elements in a student’s decision to commit to a school, so we created a plan to offer as much of the Bethlehem experience as possible in a virtual format.
- Students can now sign up for a Virtual Class Visit, and observe a virtual classroom alongside our students. In fact, it’s never been easier to visit a Bethlehem class!
- Our Spring Preview Day has been adapted to a virtual format for Monday, April 13, featuring a class visit and a program overview with Q&A. If you (or someone you know) is interested, you can register here.
- We’ve recorded new videos (with more on the way!):
There is a swirl of uncertainty in higher education these days, but our admissions team is not panicked, and our applicants aren’t either. Since Bethlehem first took action on March 11, we have continued to receive new applications, acceptances, and deposits, and have more accepted and deposited students (year-to-year comparison) than any other year in our history. We are hopeful, but totally dependent on God to bring next year’s class safely home.
Daniel Kleven
Director of Admissions
Prayer Requests:
- For our school’s president and administration as they make important decisions regarding our staff, faculty, and students.
- For our faculty as they adjust to teaching in an online format for the rest of the semester.
- For our students, that they would exercise great wisdom, discipline, and love for neighbor as they practice social distancing under “Stay at Home” orders in Minnesota and elsewhere.
- For our admissions team as we continue assisting (and often counseling and praying with) students in these trying times.