Mentorship plays a critical role in personal and spiritual growth, but many college students don’t realize that, unlike in high school, they have to seek it out. In youth groups or church communities back home, mentorship often happens naturally—through youth pastors, small group leaders, or coaches. But in college, students must be intentional about finding someone to walk alongside them.
A mentor in college doesn’t necessarily have to be a pastor or a professor. It could be an older student, a leader in a campus ministry, or someone in a local church whose life and faith are worth learning from. The key is to take initiative—approach someone you respect and simply ask if they’d be open to meeting for coffee or discussing faith and life.
The value of having a mentor cannot be overstated. A mentor provides wisdom, accountability, and encouragement. They are a safe person to ask hard questions—about faith, relationships, career decisions, and navigating challenges. They don’t have to have all the answers, but their experiences and insights can provide valuable perspective.
Just as important as finding a mentor is becoming one. Too often, students think they must reach a certain level of spiritual maturity before they can guide others. But the truth is, mentorship isn’t about having everything figured out—it’s about being available and willing to invest in someone else’s journey.
College students have a unique opportunity to pour into others, whether through leading a Bible study, mentoring younger students, or simply being a friend who listens and encourages. Being intentional in both seeking and providing mentorship creates a culture of growth and discipleship that extends beyond the college years.
For those feeling lost or alone on campus, mentorship is a game-changer. Finding someone to walk alongside, and in turn, walking alongside others, transforms the college experience into a season of deep spiritual growth and meaningful connection. The impact of a mentor can last a lifetime, shaping faith, character, and purpose far beyond the four years of college.
