5 Tips for Thriving in College as a Christian

College is HARD. 

Not just the classes...but also the pressures of the world on your young shoulders. I know what it's like growing up in a pastor's home and going to public school all my life...(well, except for high school..I was homeschooled.) it's hard to find a group of people who believe what you believe. It's also difficult to create a community and not be influenced in someway by those around you. (at least for me it was hard.)

College is a whole-notha level from public high school. It's bigger, more intimidating...more pressure in classes..alll of that. And if you're going to a secular (non-Christian) school...you can feel lonely. 

BUT have no more fear....because here are 5 tips for YOU to help YOU thrive in college as a Christian! 

TIP 1: Be Kind

Yeah, I know...cliche. BUT kindness can bring you and those around you so much joy. Who knows what the girl sitting next to you is going through. In this day and age theres a huge misconception about Christians...kill it with kindness! Not fake kindness...REAL....AUTHENTIC kindness. If you don't know how to do that (I hope you do)....pray, pray, pray for kindness. Pray for kindness when you wake up in a bad attitude. 

I can't tell you how many times I did NOT pray for kindness because I was in a bad mood and I didn't feel like praying (yes, it's happened!!) Well, that day turned out to affect my friends and the people around me in the worst way....and I made bad impressions on people. So, be kind. 

TIP 2: Find a community of Christians

A community...? Not literally a huge, ginormous amount of Christians that go to your school....but look for a group of people who hold the same values and morals as you do, join them and make friends! If you're more shy like I am, this one is definitely going to test you. The thing that has helped me with being shy is praying for boldness. If you desperately want to be more bold and outgoing to make new friends and create awesome relationships...tell God and he WILL help you!

TIP 3: Start a Bible Study night

Yep, the basic thing your Youth Pastor is probably telling you all the time. Start a Bible Study group once a week. Make signs, posters etc and make it FUN! Learning and studying the Bible doesn't have to be mundane. Learning about Jesus is crucial to growing as a Christian. There's a lot of devotionals and Bible Studies on the YouVersion Bible App. I personally use it and love it! And I'm sure your youth pastor or pastor has some Bible studies somewhere! 

TIP 4: Do your DEVOTIONALS

That's in all CAPS because it's IMPORTANT. I've done a couple more posts about devotionals...like How to do a Devotional and Why  and We All Have to Start Somewhere (great tips and motivation!)

Read those as well! 

I can't express enough how important it is to start your day with Jesus and His word. I know when I haven't done my devotionals...because I remember I didn't do them..AND because my attitude is horrid. When we don't start our day with God...it's like we aren't allowing him to protect us from the enemies that are trying to bring us down....hence my bad attitude. That's one way the enemy tries to bring me down. 

Now....I get it. You wake up late, you're rushing to your class and you don't have time to do a devotional...then say a quick prayer as you're jumping into your jeans or socks and ask God to keep you safe and to protect your mind. Don't forget to thank Him for waking you up ;)

TIP 5: TALK TO YOUR PARENTS

Remember your background! Your parents made the decision to raise their kids as Christians for a reason. They have been where you are. Sure, the world was different...but the Gospel is still the same. When you have questions about anything, go to your parents. They want to hear from you. Even if you are states away..call them, face time or Skype them. They want to hear from you (yes...I did say that twice).  They can encourage you in ways your friends can't. They will help you tremendously!