Whether you are a new or returning college student, a new semester presents its share of opportunities and challenges. Too often, the focus has been on where you should go to college or what courses you should register for. While these aspects of college life are critical to your success, the conversation needs to extend to this most important topic: how to go to college.
Your college experience can either be summed up in what happens to you or what you make happen. For example, according to the annual National Survey of Student Engagement, only 32% of new students engage in topics or concepts with faculty outside of the classroom. The employed faculty at your given college or university have been hired not only to teach but to serve as mentors. Draw from their wisdom. Glean from their experiences. You’ll be surprised what you learn and how you grow. It will make your tuition worthwhile!
Another way of how to go to college is connecting with campus organizations and clubs that you’re passionate about. Have you wanted to learn more about world cultures? Have you desired to serve in a greater way in your community? Do you have a passion for creativity? Discover ways at club fairs and meet-and- greets to connect with like-minded groups. These connections extend your education outside of the classroom and could possibly open doors for internships, fellowships and future employment.
One more way of how to go to college well is making sure you are maximizing your time. What does this mean? Balance your schedule with times of study and leisure. If everything is studying, your experience will be disconnected to the real world. If everything is leisure, you will not be wholly prepared for a world of responsibilities – thinking everything is a party. When planning your schedule, assess if you’re taking courses that are core to your major and will help you move forward. Wasting time on the dime will only lead to frustration.
We, the Quest College Ministry and Young Adults Ministry, pray and desire you do college well. A great transcript and worthy recommendations are admirable and should be attained. With that said, your college experience will form and reveal your character and the type of work ethic you will pursue in the future. Let this be the golden opportunity for learning lessons, growing in your talents and being challenged to be the person God has called you to be.
You can do this! We’re here to help. And without a doubt, God is with you!
Pastor Ryan Faison
@RyanFaison | www.RyanFaison.com
Rev. Ryan Faison is the college and young adults pastor, overseeing the Quest College Ministry and Young Adults Ministry of Christ Church. A member of preaching team and worship leader, Ryan serves the Christ Church family at both campuses in Montclair and Rockaway, NJ. Ryan enjoys traveling, graphic design and a good movie! Check him out on Twitter @RyanFaison.
