Courses to a calling.

What major provides the best preparation for writing Christian books for teenage girls? English? Psychology? Biblical studies? Belhaven College student Sarah Hilleke found an answer in the Jackson school's Omega College.

The Omega College provides students like Hilleke a way to adapt their majors to their vocational goals, according to Sherry Murphy, assistant vice-president for academic operations. "The Omega College was started two years ago when Belhaven realized that there was a need we could address," Murphy explains. "The program provides an individualized, formatted curriculum for the academically advanced student who has a vocational goal out side of our traditional majors."

Students in the Omega College still graduate with a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in a traditional major. "The course of study for each student is customized to meet his or her career objectives, but because we are a SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) accredited college, we do not compromise on our degree standards," says Murphy.

Joseph Martin, chair of the Biblical Studies and Ministries department, has served on the curriculum committee for several students in the Omega College. "I help design a program that integrates what our department can offer with what other departments offer to give the best possible preparation for the student," Martin says. "It's a great way to personalize an educational program for outstanding students."

For Hilleke, who wants to write books for teenage girls about morality issues from a Christian perspective, the committee designed a curriculum that included courses in literature for adolescents; social, family, and adolescent psychology; Biblical studies; and English and creative writing. "We are trying to help her do the thing she feels called to do," says associate English professor Randy Smith.

Another student used the Omega College to help her prepare for a career in event coordinating. "Her internship was done at Belhaven last fall when she helped coordinate the conference we hosted for the Institute of Business Ethics," says Murphy.

Martin and Smith agree that students in the Omega College exemplify above-average abilities and motivation. "My impression is that Omega students are bright and self-directed," says Smith. "They have a particular interest, and they want to pursue it."

For more details on the program, see www.belhaven.edu/Academics/Programs/ omega_college.htm.