Should you attend a Christian college or university? This question has probably entered your mind more than once since you started your college search. If you have yet to consider it, then perhaps it’s time you should. One way to address this question is to consider what you might lose if you decided not to go to a Christian college or university. What if you missed out on the opportunity of a lifetime? Attending a Christian college has many advantages that you may not be aware of, such as a godly perspective on how you can grow socially, spiritually, scholastically, and in service. Here's what to know.
The social life
A college’s social atmosphere and sense of community are two of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a school. You don’t want to go to a school where you feel you don’t fit in or like you blend in with everyone. Instead, you want to feel a sense of belonging. You can find that at a Christian college or university because developing a sense of community and fellowship with those around you is a priority. For example, joining a prayer group or club is a great way to find your niche. If you are interested in music, you can join the choir or worship team. If you're interested in writing and design, many schools offer newspapers and yearbook clubs. If athletics is more your thing, you can join an intercollegiate or intramural team. You can also participate in community events that will help you build lasting friendships, such as chapel services and dorm activities. You will find the same social environment as any other college but with an added commitment to fellowship and faith.
The spiritual experience
When you attend a Christian college or university, your faith and spiritual life are not only important to you but also to the people around you. You will live with and learn from people who share your beliefs and values. You'll be encouraged to grow in your relationship with God and other areas of your life. Christian schools will not be places where your beliefs and religious preferences are ignored or discouraged. Instead, you'll be encouraged to openly share your ideas and opinions about your faith and other topics. You can participate in things like chapel, which is held on campus and led by students, faculty, and staff. It provides you with the opportunity to worship with your dormmates, classmates, professors, and the school’s staff; reflect on your life; and continue to learn about God and your relationship with Him.
Related: 3 Good Reasons You Should Choose a Christian College
The academic expectations
No matter what school you go academics are important. The difference from secular school is your professors will share your passion for learning about and serving the Lord. They will give you knowledge that applies not only to your field of study but also to your faith, offering the advantage of integrating your major with your Christian worldview. Your education won't be based solely on subject matter and practices that are important from a worldly perspective; it will also be connected to your spiritual life, providing a holistic education in a positive learning environment with knowledgeable professors who are highly qualified and acknowledged in their field of study. Smaller class sizes allow for more student-faculty interaction and help you get to know them more personally. Your professors will challenge you to think critically about your faith and other areas of study, helping you to eventually become successful in your chosen career.
The service opportunities
Most Christian colleges prioritize a service-minded outlook and a heart for helping others—whether on campus, in your community, or globally. One great way to serve on campus is by being a resident assistant, a prayer group leader, or a small group leader on campus. As a resident assistant, you can help plan dorm events like movie nights, service projects, and weekend trips that will bring you and your peers closer together and help create a safe, comfortable, and inviting dorm atmosphere. Being a prayer or small group leader will allow you to develop personal relationships with those around you. If you want to take an active role in improving campus life for your fellow students, you could pursue student government. Bring a voice to the concerns of fellow students by acting as a liaison between them and the school’s administration. These opportunities help you develop leadership skills and relationships with staff, faculty, and students.
Something else you may want to consider is finding a job on campus. If you're interested in graphic or website design, ask someone who works in the marketing department if they need any student staff. You could become a tutor or teacher’s assistant. Working during school is a great way to earn some extra money while gaining valuable work experience, and serving the community where your school is located is a valuable outreach tool. Christian schools provide many additional opportunities, such as participating in community clean-up events or days of service and volunteering at organizations like your local Habitat for Humanity, soup kitchens, schools, mentor programs, or churches. It is up to you to make the effort to reach out to those who need it the most. Most Christian colleges also offer mission trips overseas and across the United States. If you don’t feel called to go into the mission field, you can support the school’s mission teams financially or by praying for their safety and work while they are serving.
Related: Becoming a Volunteer in College: 7 Important Areas of Service
If you choose to attend a Christian college or university, you will be a vital part of a community where your beliefs and morals are upheld and valued by those around you. Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to grow holistically and develop into the person God created you to be. Don’t miss out on unique, memorable, life-changing experiences that you'll have access to in a faith-filled community.
Explore amazing colleges and universities for your faith using our featured Christian college lists, which even allow you to connect with schools right away!
