In “Succeeding at Seminary” MBTS President Dr. Jason Allen states “Seminary can offer the opportunities and education you need to flourish in ministry, but only if you are ready to make the most of it.” Having now completed my first semester at Midwestern, I wanted to share 12 ways to make the most of your seminary experience (my favorite is #7):
- Go to every class! – You have sacrificed to be at Seminary, don’t run the danger of sacrificing your education by not turning up. It is true that grades are affected by lack of attendance, but more importantly skipping class breeds contempt. Be at class, be on time, and be ready to learn!
- Submit work early! – Professors do not look favorably on work submitted at the last minute, or even worse, submitted late. Aim to hand in work 24 hours before the deadline. Such an attitude will stem the temptation to procrastinate and will subconsciously help you work harder. Be expeditious in your submissions.
- Actively engage in class! – the Professors are experts in their fields, so ask them questions, get involved in the debate and affirm/rebut what you hear. Remember, you are learning the theory so that in practice you can serve the Kingdom effectively. So don’t daydream in class, wake up and get involved.
- Read everything! – Class reading assignments are not meant for your punishment (even if they feel like it). As we read, we have our understanding shaped and formed, the harsh edges are chipped away, and our beliefs become more defined. The antidote to bigotry is to read with a teachable spirit.
- Talk to everyone! – Whether it be the Professor grabbing a coffee, or the student in the library, or even a guest on campus, have a conversation! Find out where they are from, what they do and how you can pray for them. These conversations train you to listen and care, an important skill for future ministry, plus you might even make some friends!
- Go to every event! – After nearly a decade in ministry, I can tell you that there is limited time to attend events and conferences. You have a unique gift in chapels, conferences, lunches, lectures, and student events at your fingertips. Take hold of them and wring the experience dry!
- Eat, drink, and socialize on campus! – Seminary should be fun! Enjoy your time with you fellow students. Our favorite spot-on campus is the Tomlinson café where we eat too many brownies and drink too much coke/coffee. Hours go by as we laugh, discuss, and sometimes cry. Be amongst your brothers and sisters, be a family!
- Walk the campus grounds! – Our family loves to walk the campus. Every time we walk the campus, we are struck by the grace of God to allow us to be here. When we look at chapel and remember all the phenomenal sermons, when we look at the student center and feel affection for our fellow seminarians, when we walk past all the accommodation and think of each that has sacrificed to be here… we are overwhelmed by the gift that is our campus!
- Be an encourager! – Many students struggle with loneliness and in a desire to do well, get stressed by the pressure of exams. Go out of your way to remind students that they are not alone, be there for them and help them lift their eyes to the one who provides contentment in all seasons. I am encouraged when I encourage others!
- Work on Campus! – I have had the opportunity to work within student advising, adding a new dimension to my time at seminary. In understanding how the seminary operates and getting to know those who serve the Lord by serving the campus, I have been reminded of not only the immense privilege but my responsibility to study the Word of God.
- Explore the City! – Get out and about. You are going to be at seminary for a while, so go see the sights, visit the museums, and eat at local restaurants. For an even better experience, invite your fellow students along and enjoy your local environment. We are not called to be in holy huddles, so leave campus and remember the world needs Christ!
- Be accountable! – I have one supporter who wants to see my grades every month. They are not interested in top marks, rather they want to know if I gave my very best effort. They hold me accountable; they challenge my excuses and remind me of my goal. Accountability is a sure way for success.