This post is for students—especially Christians who are still on campus.
I know you don't want to serve on campus because you don't want your academics to suffer or maybe throughout your childhood, your parents forced you to go to church, now you're on campus and you feel like "I'm finally free"
It's usually one of these two but I want to focus on the first category today.
When I was on campus, I was a student, a Christian, and a worker. I served as an Executive, and I know first-hand how hard it is to balance everything.
Honestly, at first, I didn’t want to join the workforce in church. I felt like it was too much. I wanted to focus, graduate with a First Class, and be done.
I thought, “Let me just face my academics first.” But at some point, I realised something: I couldn’t be on campus serving myself alone and not serving God.
So I joined the workforce.
I attended classes almost every day. I studied History and International Studies, which meant constant reading—library work, research, and serious academic pressure.
I also held several academic leadership positions: Academic Coordinator for my department and General Secretary of my association etc
Then there was church service.
I became a worker in the maintenance team. We had Sunday service (and evening activities after).
I was a hall rep, so I had hostel responsibilities.
Sunday—church service (had to be in church one hour ahead, to set up)
Monday —Bible study (I had to be there by 5pm to set up).
Tuesday—workers’ prayers.
Thursday— Revival hour.
It was a lot. Truly.
But looking back, I can confidently say this: I would not have forgiven myself if I had left campus without serving God.
I thrived academically and served God on campus. And many of the benefits I enjoy today access, growth, discipline, favour I can trace them back to those years of service. I learnt so much. I met the right people. I grew spiritually and personally.
I didn’t serve because I wanted visibility.
I didn’t serve because I wanted payment.
I served because I genuinely wanted to serve God.
And yes I graduated with a strong First Class.
So if you’re on campus, this is my advice:
Serve God on campus.
Attend fellowship.
Be committed.
Work in church.
You can be an excellent student and still serve God faithfully..
Both are possible.
You're reading from your handsome friend John Petra!