If you’re campus is anything like ours, then there is no shortage of events on campus during the first weeks of the semester. While it seems strange to add to the chaos of offerings, to not offer events in those first weeks would be organizational suicide. So how do you know what to do? How many events should you have? Here are a two thoughts to help you ask the right questions and maybe find the right answers.
Complement, don’t Compete
The first thing to look for when planning the new semester is what campus is already doing. Most schools have a routine for Move-In and Orientation Weekend, so find where you can be involved with those activities. It is better to show your support of the school by serving with them, than appearing to be contrary by planning things that compete with their activities.
Our ministry used to help on Move-In Day by driving golf carts around campus and giving new students and families rides from one place to another. We would haul a cooler of water with us and also offer them a drink. We noticed, however, that the campus wanted all organizations to be more uniform in how they served on that day. So, now we serve with all other organizations unloading cars, trucks, and trailers and moving students in to their dorms. It’s less creative and we are less distinct, but it complements our campus culture.
Less (really) is More
If there are dozens of events going on around campus, why would we plan 5-6 events ourselves for the same time period. Do we want to be seen as competing for their time? Instead, we focus our energy on two events the first week of classes – our first worship service (preceded by a cookout) and a come-event one other night of the week. By focusing on these two events, I don’t get burned out and my student leaders don’t get burned out.
The other point with less is more is that, ideally, I want my interns and students focused on building relationships with new students daily, not just at events. If they are constantly preparing for events, then they will be too tired and too busy to build new friendships. Ministry is all about the relationships we can build, which sometimes happens at events, but more often happens in the daily rhythms of campus life.
What do you think?
What’s your strategy for a smart start to the new year?
