Amber Bush
Classification: Senior
Major: French
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio

A familiar face to the Lee University Campus, Amber Bush is known for her tireless work ethic. On campus, she might be found working in the nursery, behind a desk as a student worker for the English and Modern Foreign Language Department, assisting and working for Dr. Wilkins, or at any Student Leadership Council (SLC) sponsored event. She is currently the public relations secretary for SLC and the president of the French Honor Society. Amber truly knows how to get involved and be a leader.

“Everyone can be a leader,” said Bush. “I believe that it is an attitude and learned behavior. I know that God calls leaders and calls people to what they are supposed to do.”

Originally from Ohio, Bush initially heard about Lee from her youth pastor and other church members who are also Lee alumni, but a performance by Voices of Lee was the final confirmation that she needed to become a Lee student herself.

 Aspiring to be music major, Amber also had other intentions for her life at Lee. “I wanted to get out on my own and establish myself outside of my hometown. I also wanted to go to a Christian university, so Lee was the perfect choice for college.”

 Although Amber attended a fine arts high school that’s main emphasis was music, and she came to Lee intending to continue that musical education, she has ended up studying French. “I had loved French and music equally, but I’ve always wanted to major in music,” said Bush of her transition. “However, God was leading me in another direction. On the day of registration my first semester, I just felt like I was supposed to be standing in the foreign language major line as opposed to the music major line. It was then that I made the decision to switch, and I do not regret it. I believe God was behind it all, and I know I am where I am supposed to be.”

Like many new college students, Bush’s first days at Lee were a little overwhelming. “My first semester freshman year, I was a little intimidated because there is so much to do and so many different things to get involved in that I did not know where to start.” Her eyes were opened, however, to the many opportunities available to students at Lee when she started working at the post office during her second semester of her freshman year. “Working at the post office gave me a desire to find my niche. I started attending SLC meetings and found myself wanting to get even more involved. I made new friends and realized that stepping out of my comfort zone proved to be successful.”

 Like man, Amber enjoys the social aspects of Lee. But when asked why Lee is special, she talks about faith. “My faith can be integrated into my education as a benefit, not a hindrance. Being able to pray freely, worship freely in chapel and start each class with a devotion are things I really value. Attending this school for four years has allowed me to grow intellectually and spiritually.”  
Set to graduate in May, Amber is still unsure of her immediate plans once her time at Lee is done. Knowing that she wants to live in the Cleveland or Atlanta area, Amber is keeping her options open.

 Although immediate plans after college are unsure, Amber has a long-term vision to work in West Africa and start her own facility: a home where children can get an education and hear the word of God. “It would be a place for under-privileged children to have the opportunity to learn in the way that I did. I have a passion for children and a passion for French. Since French is the spoken language of West Africa, this goal allows me to join my two passions together.”

Once a shy and intimidated freshman, Amber Bush is now a confident, ambitious woman. “My advice to freshman and all other new students is to get involved as soon as you can! Try everything, this campus has so much to offer, so keep looking until you find your place.”

Posted on - 11/15/07