Behind the Scenes of Campus Ministries: Balancing Ministry and School Work 

Photograph provided by Rampage student photographer Elei Haynes.

Ministry is not as easy of a task as some might think. It involves a lot of late nights, early setup, preparation, practice, difficult conversations, and time. That’s what Bluefield University ministry students do when called to serve the campus community weekly. 

Beyond that, the ministry students are resident advisors and student-athletes, work everyday jobs, and have other commitments beyond their academic studies. So, just how do they balance ministry with all their other responsibilities? 

“My biggest struggle is stress and not letting it overtake my experiences in ministry and in school,” Carly Wright said. 

Amelia Garrett said balancing ministry is something she is doing well. She did note, however, that it is “a constant lifestyle that can be difficult to maintain sometimes.” 

Ashlyn Newman agreed, noting her biggest struggle is time management and finding a balance between fellowshipping with the team and doing her coursework.

“My biggest struggle is finding time to do both my schoolwork and worship stuff,” Richardson said to agree with Newman, “because of late-night setups and rehearsals.”

Despite the stress and challenges of this lifestyle, none of these students would change their position in ministry. It is a balancing act that makes both school and ministry work together. 

“I have to ensure I make specific times to do work or take advantage of any free time I have to complete assignments,” Newman said. 

Richardson finds that balance by completing homework during office hours.

Wright said she finds balance in getting ahead in her school work and prioritizing the Lord and her time with him.

“Above all else, He matters most,” Wright said.

“It’s all about balance while remembering what my priorities are, why I am here, and what I have to do in order to be the best student, leader, and disciple that I can be,” Garrett added. 

Through all the struggles, each student has something that they tend to lean on for help so they can do both ministry and school. 

“It helps me to know that both areas serve a purpose in my life and in others’ lives,” Newman said.

While it is a balance, Wright said her number one priority is her spiritual life.

“Taking intentional time to worship, pray, and read Scripture allows me to keep my focus on (God),” Wright said. “Once I am looking at him, everything else falls into place.” 

Richardson said it helps that he loves being on the worship team. He said his love for worship helps him stay disciplined to do the work he needs to do. Garrett added that it helps to have such a supportive group on the ministry team.

“I’m blessed to have such a hardworking and supportive family around me,” Garrett said. “Without them, this ministry would be nowhere near as fruitful.”

Although ministry is not easy, seeing seeds being planted on campus and the fruit that is to come make ministry worth it for these students.

“Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Matthew 11:30