Parent Perspective: WHAT FUTURE PARENTS NEED TO KNOW.

• Position: EXTRAORDINARY EDUCATION

HPU's tremendous growth over the last decade has been fueled by continued advocacy from parents. Below, current parents share insight on how the university helped their students transform into mature adults, as well as how other parents can take advantage of the many opportunities provided by HPU.

HPU Parent: Lou Samara HPU Studer Louis Samara, Class of 2019 Hometown Mendham, New Jersey

Q. As a parent, what drew you to HPU?

A. When we got to campus, we walked down the promenade. I looked around noticing the environment. The classical music playing on the promenade, the impeccably clean, well-designed, maintained and organized grounds and the sculptures of people who have accomplished great things with their lives. I thought, 'Wow, one could sit and be in that presence and reflect.' I immediately got it. I told a friend that this place was designed with purpose and intention. To me, HPU was what I would envision a school of success to be like, and I knew my son must attend HPU. Then I did the research and was of course excited at the prospect of my son being surrounded by this positive and inspiring environment.

Q. In what ways have you watched your son grow and change during his time at HPU?

A. Louis came in a bit unsure of himself but we agreed, with the guidance of Dr. Qubein, that the best first step was the Summer Experience. Taking classes in the summer before his freshman year officially began allowed him to settle in, get to know some students and staff on a more intimate level and really make connections that are serving him well. Since then, he has grown and is continuing to mature beyond what anyone would have expected. He is confident, bright and passionate, yet gentle and steady in his approach to his work and life. He is also well grounded and involved with different organizations. More importantly he has identified with his Christian beliefs, attends a local church with friends and has been involved in different campus ministries.

Q. What has been your most memorable experience during a visit to campus?

A. There are quite a few. Meeting so many wonderful families and students as well as staff and special guests all stand out. But, the most memorable was our first tour. Prior to our scheduled day, I emailed and asked Dr. Qubein if he would meet my son who was already accepted and considering HPU. He readily agreed and asked me to find him after his presentation to the visiting families. We met and immediately connected. Dr...