Living Unplugged
Our campus is smartphone free.
We call it being unplugged.
We are constantly bombarded by messages from social media, the news, other people, sometimes even our own hearts, telling us who we should be, what we are worth, and how we should think.
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In the midst of this, God desires to speak truth. Setting aside smartphones, social media and the pressure of romantic relationships turns down the internal noise and creates space for you to focus on things that matter most.
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Summit is fully-immersive, meaning we are not a typical “Monday to Friday” school. You will spend most of your time on campus, with the exception of things like ministry outings, missions trips or getaway weekends. The friendships that are built in this unique atmosphere are something students carry with them for a lifetime.
What is being unplugged?
Why is being unplugged important?
“Being unplugged was one of the highlights of my experience at Summit. It was refreshing to get away from the noise that competes for our attention. I felt I was able to draw closer to God in a deeper and more intimate way simply because I was able to focus. My head wasn’t crowded with things, and during those precious two years I developed a sensitivity to His voice and a love for His presence.”
Sophia Grous, Student
Genuine
Connection
Form authentic friendships that last a lifetime.
Deeper
Focus
Give your full attention to God’s Word and calling.
Personal
Growth
Grow in character, faith, and spiritual maturity.
Create
Space
Clear away distractions to tune into God’s voice.
Unplugged FAQ
Why is Summit Unplugged? We live in a world that constantly competes for our attention through social media, news, and even our own thoughts. These voices often tell us who we should be and what we’re worth. Being unplugged allows students to quiet that noise and create space to hear God’s truth. It’s an intentional choice to step away from distractions and focus on what matters most: growing in relationship with Christ and others.
How do students stay connected with family and friends back home? Even though Summit is a smartphone-free campus, students still have access to staying in touch with loved ones. Phones are available in the dorms for regular calls, and a computer lab allows students to check out tablets to video call their family and friends. These intentional times of connection help students maintain important relationships while staying fully present in what God is doing during their season at Summit. We encourage students to stay in touch with family during their time at Summit.
Is it hard to adjust to being unplugged? For some, it takes a minute to get used to life without a smartphone. But once students settle in, many say it’s one of the most freeing parts of their Summit experience! Without constant notifications and comparison, they find themselves more at peace, more focused, and more connected to the people around them.
What do students do without social media or smartphones? They live fully and intentionally. Summit students spend time studying the Bible, worshiping together, serving in ministry, and building deep friendships. The campus is filled with conversation, laughter, creativity, and community - things that thrive when screens are set aside.
Why is setting aside romantic relationships part of being unplugged? This season at Summit is about deepening your relationship with the Lord and discovering who you are in Him. By setting aside romantic relationships, students are free to focus on spiritual growth without added distractions or emotional pressure. It’s a time to let God form your identity and prepare your heart for healthy relationships in the future.
Does being unplugged mean students can’t ever leave campus? Not at all! Summit is a fully immersive environment, meaning most of your daily activity happens on campus. However, students do leave campus for ministry outings, mission trips, and occasional getaway weekends. These experiences help them apply what they’re learning and grow through serving others.
What is the biggest benefit of being unplugged? It's hard to pick just one! Many students say they value the space to hear God clearly, to slow down, and to be transformed. When the noise of the world fades, students often find renewed peace, purpose, and identity in Christ. Many describe their unplugged season as life-changing and a time when they truly learned to listen and walk closely with God.
