In a rapidly changing educational landscape, parents and students alike find themselves wrestling with the question: Is traditional college worth it? With rising costs and shifting job markets, many are seeking alternatives that provide real-world experience and spiritual growth. In this blog post, we’ll explore insights from Andrew Haak, director of the Excel Summer Leadership Camp and faculty member at Excel College, about how their innovative approach to higher education addresses these pressing concerns.

Student Debt is a Major Concern: The rising cost of education and student debt is a pressing issue that families must consider.

Faith Development is Challenging: Traditional college environments often lack the personal mentorship necessary for spiritual growth.

Excel College Offers a Unique Solution: With a focus on practical experience and community living, Excel College prepares students for real-world challenges while nurturing their faith.

Mentorship is Key: Personalized guidance helps students navigate their educational and personal growth effectively.

Excel College

Teach Them Diligently Convention: Meet with like-minded families and hear more from world-class speakers. Click HERE to register today!

Andrew Haak is the Director of the Excel Summer Leadership Camp and a member of the College Classroom Faculty at Excel College in Black Mountain, NC. Excel is forging an alternative to higher education that produces wise, mature, and productive adults who follow Jesus into flourishing lives. Andrew has served at Excel since 2021, and during that time has founded and directed the Summer Leadership Camp and co-created the Critical Thinking method and curriculum used across both the camp and college programs. He lives on campus with his wife Gabriella and remains deeply invested in the formation, culture, and mission of Excel to make disciples of Jesus and steward healthy families.

Looking for a summer experience for your student that will take them on the adventure of a lifetime while building their character in Christ? At Excel Summer Leadership Camp, students spend 12 days in the Blue Ridge Mountains growing in their faith, developing leadership skills, and gaining real-world readiness. From rock climbing and whitewater rafting to deep discussions on faith, truth, and leadership—every moment is designed to build confidence, clarity, and conviction. This isn’t just a camp—it’s a launching point. Students leave more prepared to discover God’s truth, discern wisely, and live wholeheartedly. Want to learn more about our camps? Come see Excel at the Teach Them Diligently conferences in Branson, Missouri and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, or visit theexcelcamp.org.