Keep connected with students from your congregation when they are away at school:

• Include your students on the mailing list for the church newsletter, bulletins, or E-newsletters-keep them up-to-date about what's happening back home.
• Send a gift card-coffee, grocery, book, and discount store cards are great.
• Remember them on birthdays and holidays-students love surprises in their mailboxes.
• Care packages-home-made cookies are popular, especially during exam times.

Keep your students connected when they are at home on breaks:

• Invite your students to get involved with church activities.
• Ask them to share their college experiences with the congregation.
• Let them know about internship and ministry opportunities at the church over the summer months.
• Most importantly, highlight your students while they are home to make sure they know they are a valued part of your church family.

College is a time when students are learning more than academics; they are making adult choices about careers and relationships. They are often so busy they don't take the time to keep in touch. Students love to hear from home. The church family can take an active part in keeping them connected.

Compiled by Dawna Williams, assistant director of admissions, Eastern Nazarene College.

Please note: All facts, figures, and titles were accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of original publication but may have since changed.