After the strict timetables and adult supervision of high school, adjusting to the freedom of the routine at college can be a challenge. But if you’re going to a Christian college, there are some things that will help to make it easier for you to transition well to living at college.
Check out these tips for building a routine so you can succeed at college:
Figure out when you’ll spend time with God
As a Christian, you need to make sure you prioritise spending time with God above everything else. So, what time of the day are you best able to concentrate? Is it first thing in the morning, just before dinner or late in the night? Whatever time that is, block it out and intend to spend that time each day with God. Even if you’re attending a Christian college with chapel services and Bible classes, you still need to spend time alone reading the Bible and praying to grow in your relationship with God.
Figure out when you study best
Some people do their best independent learning late in the evening, while others need the sunlight streaming in for them to focus. Whatever time of day is best for you to learning, make sure you block this out in your routine. Education is a gift from God, and your time at a Christian college will shape you for the rest of your life. Make sure you are dedicating plenty of time to actually studying while you’re at college.
Figure out when you’ll socialize
A big part of attending a Christian college is building wonderful strong friendships with others Christians. So make sure you’re setting aside time each week for growing your friendships. Friday nights and Saturdays are great for going out, seeing a movie or jamming with your friends. But at college you also have the freedom to hang out in the dorms every night! That’s definitely something to cherish while you have it. Just make sure you’re not letting your social life take away from your time with God or your studies.
Figure out how you’ll get around
Transport around the college campus takes time, and you’re probably used to just jumping on the school bus at home. Figure out how you’ll get around the campus – walking? Is there a shuttle bus? Will you have a car? If you’re attending a Christian college you’ll probably find there is some sort of rideshare arrangement, or you can carpool with others in your dorm or classes t make the most of your time travelling.
Figure out how you’ll keep in touch with people back home
Once you’ve left home to attend a Christian college, you’ll need to make sure how to keep in touch with people back home. It might be best to set aside a weekly time to call your parents, or you may find yourself getting too busy to check in and making them worry. Perhaps a Monday evening Facetime call would be perfect for you and your family to stay in touch.
While you’re attending your Christian college, you’ll have plenty of freedom as well as some commitments to attend to each week. Make sure you are honouring the things you commit to as well as making the most of your free time, for the glory of God!