Brian Meyers graduated from high school in 2007. (New Tribes Missions photo)
USA (MNN) ― On August 4, Brian Meyers began his first day of classes at Shepherds College, on the campus of Shepherds Ministries in Union Grove, WI.
"It was really hard. It was good, and hard," Brian said. "We have really good classes here, but they're really challenging."
August 4 was also the first day of classes ever held at Shepherds College. One characteristic makes it stand out from other schools -- it serves students like 19-year-old Brian, who have a primary diagnosis of Intellectual Disability.
"It's a wonderful, wonderful place," said Brian's father, Dave Meyers. "Shepherds Ministry I think is not only going to be able to help guide hearts, but to really give hope to those with developmental disabilities, that they can be successful. They can be proud of an opportunity for them to really serve and make a difference in the world and in their life, and Shepherds College is providing that forum for them to do that."
On the first day of classes, Brian studied subjects like computer skills, life skills, Bible school, personal development, and chapel. He chose the horticulture track of the program.
"I like plants because plants and I get along so well," Brian said. "You get to dig holes, and I love to dig."
The horticulture program prepares students for greenhouse production, landscape maintenance, and garden center retail. Students will receive instruction in subjects like floral design, nursery and garden operations, equipment maintenance, and work safety precautions.
The first year of the three-year program will be spent primarily in the classroom. During the second year, students will continue to work in the classroom but will also begin hands-on training. In the third year, each student will be placed in an internship with a local employer, in addition to a small amount of class work.
The Meyers serve at the training center for New Tribes Missions in Missouri. Brian developed his interest in horticulture through the ministry he has been able to have at the training center.
"He's got a nice John Deere Gator there," his father Dave explained. "He serves down there on landscaping and the grounds, and just serves the students and staff that way."
The Meyers were familiar with Shepherds Ministries because Brian's Aunt Krista has been a resident there for many years. They learned about the new college about a year ago, and Brian decided he was ready for more challenges. He really likes Shepherds College and the people there.
"My aunt goes here, and there's so many cool people that I met," Brian said. "Just yesterday I met a lot of people, and it was really awesome."
His attendance at Shepherds was made possible by the support of many Christians who have generously donated to cover the school's expenses.
"It's just been a wonderful, wonderful thing to see God's people step forward and be a part of shaping, guiding and giving hope to young people like Brian who are students here," Dave said.
Brian asked for prayer for himself and the teachers as they get started with classes.
"These classes are not an easy way to go," he said. "They're tough and they're hard."
Despite the challenges, Brian is enthusiastic about the college and wholeheartedly recommends it.
"It's an amazing place, and I think everybody should come here and learn about stuff," he said.
