Almost all of this post is serious; the 'alternate reality' part was on Allison's suggestion. I'm pretty darn proud of how the bio turned out. Now, let's see what Barclay thinks of it...
My name is Adria Hinrichs and I am from Temecula, California. As I look back on my time at Barclay, I am amazed at how much life was packed into these two short years. These are years full of experience; experience I could not have had at any other scholarly institution. Barclay is such a unique place and has provided me with quite the opportunity for growth and learning.
My parents have taught me so much about what it means to live a life worth emulating. Through their example, I have learned not only how, but also why being a follower of Christ is central to our existence. All other strivings pale in comparison to the greatness of knowing Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. My siblings, as well as my entire extended family, have shown me what it is to love unconditionally. They have been a consistent fountain of joy and love pouring into my life from childhood. Both the friendships invested in before Barclay and the continuation of those begun here have made my life rich with love and companionship.
I came to Barclay not knowing exactly what to expect, and was excited to see how God’s plan for the “Barclay” segment of my life was to unfold. I was home educated for most of my life, and through that, gained one of the best educations I could have received. Coming to Barclay was not a huge shock for me, as some may assume. Growing up, I had countless friends whom I saw on a daily basis and had been preparing for college since elementary school. I am indebted to my grandparents for the trips I took overseas which have broadened my view of culture, history, art, Creation and religion, as well as the many college-prep classes I took outside of the home, which were crucial in preparing me for the rigors of college. Adjusting from high school to college is a big step in a young person’s life, and my experience of home schooling helped me tremendously. To those considering home school, I highly encourage it; it has molded and shaped me into who I am today.
Alternate Reality: here's the real truth of my thoughts
[[[[[[I came to Barclay not knowing exactly what to expect, but very excited to uncover the mysteries that lie in wait. Okay, that might be a little too poetic for a grad bio, but then again, that’s me. Also, I’m interested in journalism…which is why, well, moreover, one of the many reasons why, I am transferring to…dun dun dun…Chico State! But really, I’m more interested in kids, so I’m doing child development, but not nearly as many people know that—they all stinking think I’m going full force into journalism. I love it-yes-but kids are my passion. I don’t really want to be a career woman anyway; all I wanna be is a mommy. A mommy who homeschools her kids and loves on people and loves my husband. By the way, puh-lease don’t pressure me to get into a relationship with someone at Barclay, because there is absolutely no one here who would even tempt my stupidest desires. That’s why, hallelujah, I’m transferring! Ah, actual possibilities: people who are intellectual and a little more than just enough-socially adept…Oh my.]]]]]]]]]]]]
Something really special about the Barclay experience is the location, and thus the culture it provides. I have a deep passion to experience new places. College, I thought, was the perfect time to travel, while getting a great education. I have definitely seen a portion of the world I had not fully known before when I came to Haviland, Kansas. This tiny little town with an incredibly big impact has had an effect on me that will not become obsolete.
This coming summer, I am going to be on staff with Bring Me Hope, an organization that puts on summer camps for Chinese orphans. From June to August, I will be in China loving on orphan children; this is exactly what my heart loves. There could not be a more perfect opportunity to hone what I have learned through my childhood and augmented at Barclay; that loving Jesus and loving others are the essential characteristics of a life well lived.
I am transferring with my Associates degree to California State University, Chico, in the fall of this year. I will be studying Child Development, with a minor in Journalism. Children, particularly those with special needs, are a passion that the Lord has instilled in me, and I have only touched the exciting field of journalism. At rest in His timing, I would like to write for a family magazine and be an advocate for children with special needs in a practical way.
As I go out from Barclay College, I scan the possibilities of what my life may look like in a few years, and wonder what is in store. It could be a family, a career in the States, or a job overseas; the Lord’s scope of imagination is so far beyond our comprehension, that I can only ready myself now for what He has planned for me then. I am so very thankful for the last two years I have spent here, and am grateful for the many ways the Lord has grown me while attending Barclay College. I desire to be an ever-blooming expression of His grace, beauty, joy and truth, so that people may see me and be changed by my God.
1. Integrity
-In all areas of life.
Family of origin, family of choice, friends, church, career, options for opportunity.
Ultimately, a passionate disciple of Jesus Christ: this requires humility, graciousness, good standing with acquaintances, justice, wisdom, joy, honesty, patience, devotion, and namely, a deep, deep love for his Savior.
2. Intelligence
-A man who can think.
One who has a thirst for knowledge, and searches it out in any number of ways. The ability to stand on his own and have good discussions. Loves books. Desires a great education (homeschool!) for our children.
Will make for himself a good job that supports a family.
3. Attractiveness
-This implies all the trivialities:
Handsome to me, enjoyed by others, adventurous, musical, passionate, stubborn enough to combat my own lot of stubbornness, yet soft hearted enough to understand my own soft heart, creative, flexible, artistic, jovial, outdoorsy, tender, lover of children...and the list goes on.