Good News about College Students

At the time of year when many college students are beginning another school year a new study provides some encouraging words on what they are looking for as they prepare for a future career.  The assumption is their primary focus is on profession development and preparing for a career, with the goal of financial security.  Pastors, youth ministry professionals and their parents have always been concerned about their spiritual welfare while on campus.  The report from the Barna Group seems to indicate a desire on the part of students to grow in their discipleship while planning for their future.  Many want to be able to integrate their faith into their future career.

A majority of college students see higher education as a path to gainful employment (69%) and financial security (55%).  The percentage was considerably higher for practicing Christian college students (75%), but many of them want much more than just an education.   Three in ten (31%) of practicing Christian college students expressed an interest in continued professional development that focused on integrating faith and applying it to a career.  Twenty-six percent (26%) were looking for a workshop or similar one-time event to help them integrate their future career with their faith.  Twenty percent (20%) wanted an even deeper experience through involvement in a hub or small group.

Where at one point we would had to rely on letter writing, or an occasional phone call or campus visit, staying engaged with contemporary college students is much easier.  Social media, Face Time and email are tools that are readily available.  It does require an ongoing commitment.  It also means being fervent in our prayers for young people during these critical years.

Many adults are under the impression that members of Generation Z (those born since the beginning of this century) are like the Millennial Generation that preceded them.  Wrong!  That includes many of today’s college who might be classified as Millennials but in actuality are more like members of Generation Z.  The reality is the opportunity to disciple the next generation appears to be there.  Now it is imperative that we step up a seize it.