Sarah Blake, Clayton, N.Y.
Class of 2006

Majors/Minors: Environmental Science

Before EMU: I was homeschooled the last 3 years of high school using the Robinson curriculum. I did not enjoy the experience but it was better than public school; it helped me develop self-discipline and gave me some new perspectives as well as allowed me to have more time to pursue non-school-related interests such as photography and playing alto sax.

As a new student: I was nervous about handling the work load, fitting in, getting along with my roommate, getting stressed out. The self-discipline that homeschooling promotes comes in very handy in college because all the independent work does not come as a surprise; there are other homeschoolers as well as students with a variety of non-traditional educational backgrounds so being a homeschooler is not intimidating at all; the freedom for creativity in many classes is refreshing for people used to being self-driven.

EMU is a great place for homeschoolers- they want the diversity of perspectives and value everyone's unique experience; they do not expect everyone to be the same or to come from the same educational background.

Influential professors: professors and staff alike all have a great deal of concern for each student as an individual and are willing to take time to help you in any way they can. Jay B. Landis, my professor, advisor, and mentor, who has always been willing to listen and helped me have more confidence in myself and to accept and appreciate my differences from others, as well as nurturing my creativity.

After graduation: possibly graduate school, find a job I enjoy, travel

Bill Harner, East Otis, Mass.
Class of 2003

Major/Minors: communications with an art minor. Just graduated, have
one class left.

Before EMU: I was home schooled from 3rd grade until I started community college at 16.

As a new student: Except for going to class, college isn't that much different from home schooling; you still have to get a lot of what you learn out of a book and on your own time, you just have to go to classes (most of the time). I would recommend EMU because it is a small community and things are pretty close knit, which is nice when you are used to doing things in small groups.

Campus Activities: I was in CAC, campus activities council, and German Club; they're just fun things to do.

Life-changing event: (Professor) Jerry Holsopple has been very helpful and convinced me to come back when I was thinking about dropping out; he's been willing to work with me and guide me through my major and college experience to find what I enjoy doing and to become good at it.

Adria Leigh Arnold, Chesterfield, Va.
Class of 2005

Major/Minors: Early Childhood Education/History and Social Science

Before EMU: I was homeschooled for 6 years. I graduated early and spent more time with children which also became my job. It was worthwhile time that helped me to develop and find out where I wanted to go in life. I fell in love with teaching.

As a new student: I think that as homeschoolers we have more to overcome than the average public school student. People do not know what to expect from us and they may think that we are shy and reclusive but in truth most homeschoolers have a very good sense of who they are and what they want out of life.

I was able to adapt very well to college life and have proved to many of my friends and teachers that homeschoolers are "normal". I have overcome these stereotypes and fell that I have proved what a powerful thing homeschooling can be. Make sure you go out into the world and go to college. Do not miss the opportunity to make a name for yourself and prove what you can do.

Campus Activities: SOS, student orientation staff; SEA, student education association, Co-President and Treasurer

Classwork: Academics are valued at EMU. I have to admit that many times I look at the end goal and not at the smaller details when it comes to classes but I do appreciate the teachers. I love being at a small school where you can approach them with questions and they are willing to answer. They know you by name and remember you from year to year. That is great!

Outside of school: I tutor, work as a receptionist and have been a nanny for 5 years.

Life-changing event: I just returned from Cross Cultural to Austria and I think that it is a great opportunity! I made good friends while I was there and I think that it is and integral part to understand who I am and learning to live with other people. I commend EMU for requiring it in their program

After graduation: Would like to teach at a low income school in Chesterfield.