Starting university is exciting… and a little overwhelming.
There are classes to find, people to meet, and a thousand questions running through your mind. What if I don’t fit in? What if I choose the wrong program? What if I don’t enjoy it there?
So we asked the Kingswood community one simple question:
“If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting their first year at Kingswood this fall, what would it be?”
Alumni, students, faculty, and friends shared stories, practical advice, funny memories, and words of encouragement from their own experiences. While every response was unique, a few themes surfaced again and again.
Here are some of the lessons they wanted this year’s incoming students to hear.
1. Put Jesus First
More than anything else, our community encouraged students to make their relationship with Christ the foundation of their time at Kingswood.
“Nothing is more important than Jesus.”
“Always put Jesus first.”
“Invest in your relationship with Jesus.”
Classes matter. Ministry opportunities matter. Friendships matter.
But the greatest thing you can leave Kingswood with is a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.
2. Invest in People
Love God. Love each other.
While the most common theme was about students relationship with God, the second was their relationship with each other.
Not because everyone becomes best friends, but because the right people can shape your life for years to come.
“Make friends.”
“Invest in the relationships that will last.”
“Networking is what lands a job.”
Some of the people you meet during your first week could still be in your life ten or twenty years from now.
So… don’t rush past people.
3. Build Good Habits Early
While some people shared spiritual wisdom, others reminded students to bring less stuff to campus, schedule assignments early, and learn to small talk.
Practical tips for surviving this new adventure were brought up frequently.
Schedule your assignments.
Stay organized.
Don’t overpack your dorm.
Learn to small talk.
Say yes to opportunities… but learn when to say no.
None of these things seem life-changing in the moment.
But together they will make your university experience healthier and more enjoyable.
4. Don’t Let Grades Define You
Several alumni reminded students that while academics are important, your transcript isn’t the most important thing you’ll leave with.
One commenter summed it up well:
“It’s more about how Jesus is shaping you than the grades you receive.”
Work hard.
Study faithfully.
But don’t confuse academic success with personal worth.
5. Enjoy Every Moment
Perhaps the most repeated advice of all?
Don’t wish these years away.
“Get involved.”
“Make memories.”
“Soak it all up.”
Four years sounds like a long time, but most people who have experienced time at Kingswood know how quickly it can pass.
A Final Word
If there’s one thing these comments made clear, it’s this:
You’re joining more than a university.
You’re joining a family of people who are praying for you and cheering you on before you’ve even unpacked your dorm room.
So… Lean into it.
Keep Jesus at the center.
Love people well.
And don’t forget to enjoy every moment.