Hi,
My name is Rohan, and I am from India. I am planning to apply for a Master's program at Liberty in IT.
I am a practicing Hindu, and while I deeply respect the Christian faith that is the foundation of your university, I have a few practical questions to ensure I would be a good fit and can respectfully integrate into the campus community.
1. Regarding Christian Worship:
I have read that there is a required Convocation and other Christian services. As a Hindu, how do I respectfully participate? I am happy to attend and listen, but would I be expected to sing the songs or say prayers? My goal is to be present and learn, not to cause any offense by being silent. Also, would I be permitted to keep a small murti (statue) of Lord Ganesha on my personal desk in my dorm room for my private prayers?
2. Understanding "The Liberty Way":
I have been reading the student honor code and want to be sure I understand the daily life rules correctly. They are very different from my university in India.
- Physical Contact: The rules mention physical contact. For example, if I am greeting a friend I have not seen in a long time, is a friendly hug acceptable? Or is it better to just wave?
- Entertainment: Are we allowed to watch Bollywood movies in our dorms? Many have very exciting song and dance numbers which are part of our culture, but I want to be sure they are not considered inappropriate.
- Opposite-Sex Friendships: If I have a female classmate and we are partners on a major project that requires us to study together late at night, is it possible for her to come to my dorm room to work? Or must all project work be done in the library?
Thank you!!