Most surveys show 60-70% of college freshmen make NO spiritual connections in college, go to church, etc.
How can You Encourage Your Student to Continue their Faith in College?
1. They need to understand how important it is to be intentional about making spiritual connections in the beginning. Most don't plan to drop out. They just assume it will automatically happen and it doesn't. Deciding to make early connections is key. Most college ministry churches will have special Sundays the first week or two of school. Obviously, that is the best and easiest time to go.
2. Parents need to encourage church and/or campus based ministry involvement just as they encourage good grades. Obviously, this will not guarantee it, but it can make a difference. If a family goes to Dorm Move-In Day, stay and go to church with them at a college church on Sunday before leaving and going home. It is easier to go back somewhere they have already been. And, they didn't have to try to go somewhere by themselves that first time. In conversations over the first week or two, ask about attendance at campus or church Christian events?
3. Make contact with a Campus Ministry or College Church prior to the start of school. Parents can send name and contact information or go on websites and check things out. Most provide a place to enter contact info for incoming students. These ministries will make contact usually prior to school starting and provide information about welcome events happening during those first few days. Some even offer pre-school events. It is not too late to do it now.
Check out "162 Tips and Hacks for College Freshmen: Fun, Faith & Good Grades" at Amazon.com/dp/B0H466D8Z9. and "30 Devotionals for College Freshmen" Amazon.com/dp/B0H8K6L1QX