As a Christian high school student, a majority of my life had been dedicated to attending the same church with the same people, singing the same worship songs, and hearing the same testimonies. But oftentimes I wondered what it’d be like to explore faith on my own. College is a great time to step out of that routine. It will provide amazing opportunities to confirm your faith, explore it, and embrace its role in your life. As you approach a time where you'll be confronted with the stresses of living on your own and learning new things, you may need God more than ever before. Here are a few faith-based aspects that I incorporated into my college search, and if living your faith on campus is important to you, you should keep them in mind as well.
Deciding between a Christian and secular college
While searching for colleges, you might consider Christian schools as opposed to secular schools. My calling was toward a major that more secular colleges offered top programs for, so I chose to apply to them over Christian campuses that provide more faith-based environments. This was the better option for me and my financial future, but I ensured I found ways to nurture my faith on campus. If you choose to go to a secular school, there are many ways you can too. Try picking a set of verses or chapters to work on before bed and then bookmark it to reflect on in the morning. By doing this, you’re working extra reading and studying into your daily routine, maximizing your education for the future.
If you aren’t sure what you want to study or you want to prioritize your religion over a specification in majors, you should look into Christian colleges to stay connected to your faith at school. This way more opportunities such as ministries, a campus chapel, Bible classes, religious clubs, and service learning will be available to you. Just make sure the school has a variety of academics you’d like to explore so you have choices when it comes time to declare a major.
Related: A Student’s Helpful Guide to Christian Colleges and Religious Education
Exploring off-campus faith activities
Regardless of the denomination of the school you choose, there are a lot of steps you can take to stay on the path of your faith in new environments. The first thing I did was find a new church. I went to a Protestant Christian establishment, a little one quaint in thought but significant in spiritual presence. To match that sense of spirituality and fellowship, I needed to tour my new college town before the semester started for various establishments to make sure I could make my weekly commute for the Sabbath. It was also important for me to volunteer with the church I chose because in living the faith, it’s always good to contribute to the church. So explore what opportunities are in the city beyond when you schedule a campus visit.
Learning about extracurricular activities
Clubs for different religions and beliefs are available on all college campuses, secular or not. And if you can’t find what you’re looking for, you may be able to create your own student group. I joined Bible study clubs within my college. In addition to my regular classes, I set aside time in my schedule to meet with peers and talk about ways to apply God’s word to our lives. It’s always helpful to sit in fellowship with others who share the love and faith we have in Jesus as Christians. There are so many ways to get involved, it's just about looking for them and putting yourself out there when something feels right.
Related: From Stressed to Blessed: How to Find Time for Your Faith as a Student
All in all, if you want to stay connected to your faith in college, you should be looking forward to worshipping with a new group, studying with new friends, and reflecting on your own in college. It’s the best way to give back and benefit your spiritual growth, all while living on campus. Whether you're at a Christian college or a public school with no affiliation, carry your faith with you into your college journey how you want to by seeking out opportunities to nurture it.
For more advice on faith and the transition to college, check out our Catholic Colleges and Universities section.
