Crowder student dreams of mountain home

Q&A: Lauren Gammons

 

Lauren Gammons Picture

Bretton Cole

Reporter

 

What is your major?

My major is general studies. That’s about it right now.

 

Where are you from?

Neosho, Mo.

 

Why did you choose Crowder?

I had the opportunity to gain a scholarship from it, so I’m getting free classes. It’s a blessing.

 

Why did you choose to major in general studies?

God told me to be patient after doing some crazy stuff. He told me that this is where he wants me right now. As much as I didn’t choose this, I’ve never had this much peace being in a place that I didn’t want to be. I’m growing from it, from staying home.

 

What are your plans following college here at Crowder?

I am planning to attend a ministry school to get a certification in advanced leadership. I want to work with students. So, whatever that has involved with church planting and such. Big picture, I know God has called me to ministry, so I want to fulfill that.

 

What hobbies do you have?

Ooh, I love to dance, I’m a dancer! I like to write. I love to read. I love to be with people.

 

What is something interesting you’ve done?

I climbed this mountain in Korea one time, and then there were these people there. They didn’t speak English. I asked God if he would translate for me, and then He did. I think that was very interesting. I probably shouldn’t have been alone, but I was. I got to talk to people about God and share my passion with them. I traveled, and I was able to be on a dance crew that goes to school assemblies and we share the gospel and dance.

 

Speaking of passion, what is your passion?

My passion is to share the love of the Lord, and His truth to all who need to hear – and all need to hear. I want to reach the unreached.

 

What practical things do you think people can learn from your experience in South Korea?

Going beyond your comfort zone. When you do it, it opens up conversation that could take you places to get to know the person well. They have a lot of boundaries. In South Korea, their culture is very standoffish. If you don’t make a point to talk, then there is no relationship.

 

Do you think that skill is valuable in the United States?

Yes, it’s helped me a lot since I’ve been home. By learning that, I’ve learned to be more intentional in getting to know people.

 

If you could have dinner with President Donald Trump, what would you tell him?

I think I’d ask him a question. I think I’d ask him “In five years, down the road, do you really think you made America Great Again?” What’s his favorite color I guess.

 

What is your favorite childhood memory?

Baking cookies with the family and then going to this rooftop where my dad would help me climb to the roof of this park, and then we would sit and eat them.

 

Where would you most like to live?

In the mountains. I love the mountains.

 

What is your favorite restaurant?

This actually just crossed my mind. I really like Steak & Shake. It makes me feel cool when I sit in the booth.

 

Who is your role model?

Omniscient, the Lord. But He’s also placed leaders in my life. Her name is Rayna Frietas. She’s amazing, and I really look up to her in the way that she loves the Lord. It’s inspiring to grow from her.

 

What traits does she have that you admire?

She has a passion, a lot of passion. She has gentleness, like with her kids. She has patience and joy. She has a peace about her, it roams around her, it’s really amazing. She’s really funny. She’s deep – she thinks and learns deep.

 

If you were taken to a deserted island and could only bring three things, what would you take with you?

I would take my Bible, my notebook, and my pen. I need to write. I can’t write with leaves.

 

How do you feel about Crowder so far?

It’s not too bad, I really enjoy getting to know new people and new experiences. I like people. The work is overloaded, but we’re getting there. I’m not dreading it yet.

 

What tips would you recommend to people coming to college for the first time?

Don’t be afraid to meet new people. Ask questions. They have to give you an answer. Make sure you turn your stuff in on time.

 

What would you tell prospective college students about Crowder?

I would recommend it. it’s a close community.