My Best Advice for Christian Freshmen: University Style

It’s time for college.

via GIPHY

The start of a new journey and a new educational environment. Not many people can go to a university or college, but it is a great opportunity for those who do. It has its pros and cons, but college is still a big deal. The changes may be a bit overwhelming and you probably have mixed emotions about them, so I encourage you to stay strong and trust the Lord. 

Why are you there?
​The main goal is to be a good student; learn, grow, and set goals for the future. Don’t ignore your grades because they do matter. But don’t become obsessed with them either. Do the best you can to please God with your work. Remember that college is a growing season, which means it can be difficult. Be patient with yourself and give yourself and others grace. 

How to maintain your relationship with God?
There are many people in universities with different backgrounds and beliefs. As a child of God, it is important to avoid negative influences, focus on the goal you are there to accomplish and stay strong in your faith. Never be ashamed of the gospel. Colleges seem to be placing pressure on students to conform to one acceptable line of thinking. The pressure on young Christians to compromise their convictions is intense. Make time for church whether in person or online. 

Who are you? What kind of person do you want to be?

​These are important questions to ask yourself before going to college. Honour your values and choices ahead of time. Flee from morally compromising situations, and engage in life-giving things. Protect your reputation and integrity. Select friends with similar values and lifestyles as yours. Don’t settle. Don’t compromise who you are in Christ. Have a vision of the person you want to be. It’s also a good idea to ask someone to hold you accountable to be that person.

What once defined you for years no longer defines you in college. You won’t be known for your past achievements, relationships, failures or regrets. For some of you, this is an encouraging thought. Maybe you’ve had many struggles in high school and you’re eager to let go of the past and start over. College is a good place to do that. For others, this is a disappointing thought. Maybe you’ve built who you are based upon your academic success or sports/art accomplishments, and the idea of losing those things is disappointing. Carry the accomplishments with you to give you the encouragement and affirmation you need, but know that you will gain new achievements in this next season. Let go of the past mistakes, failures, and hurt and allow the newness to bring healing to the brokenness of the past. 

The workload may be a bit stressful and you may go through other personal difficulties. Try to relax and be easy on yourself sometimes. Download Socratic to help with different courses. Make a to-do list and stay ahead of deadlines. Take a little time out of your day to pray and read your Bible to strengthen your relationship with God. There are also many clubs you can join to do some extracurricular activities. Your health is so important, so don't neglect your body. Find affordable healthy meals that you can make to nourish your body. 

Surround yourself with positive people. Keep in touch with your family also. This can give you more encouragement because they want the best for you. Parents may be worried about your safety, so it is important to always contact them. You can even share your location with them when you’re on the road. If you are faced with financial issues, you can talk with your institution's student union. There are bursaries and grants available at the office. Scholarship applications open in May and are usually needs-based, so apply early to as many that appertain to you. Hundreds of scholarships are on the J-tech website and a few may be on your institution's website. ​

If you are facing any difficulties, just pray. You can pray to the Lord about any situation, and He will hear you and answer you. The Bible says, "I sought the Lord, and he heard me and delivered me from all my fears." (Psalm 34:4)

I’m excited for you and wish you the best!

Author

Myesha Howell