Why Every Guy Needs a Mentor In College

Heading off to college? If so, I’m sure you’re thinking, “FREE-DOM! Yasss!” Let’s be real, it’s definitely exciting! But it’s also one of biggest transitions of your life, especially if you’re a young Christian man determined to stay true to your faith. Christian mentorship might just be the best move to help you handle new pressure and the important choices you’re about to face.

Just like the three dudes in my novel (Exactly How It’s ‘Posed to Be) starting their journey at HBCU, Winton College, you’re going to face some major decisions around dating, relationships, and faith. Add all of that with academics, and it can be A LOT! One of the best ways to handle it all? Find a yourself a good, Christian mentor. (Proverbs 11:14, Proverbs 12:15)

Mentorship Matters - Why You Need a Mentor in College

College isn’t just classes and exams—it can be full of temptation. It’s not always easy to hold it all down, especially when everyone else is living in the moment. A Christian mentor has been where you are, and they’ve likely messed up a few times themselves. The right mentor is equipped with life experience that can help you handle all the “-ish” from a Biblical perspective—including the challenges of relationships and sexual temptation. They should keep you grounded, help you resist peer pressure, and remind you of God’s awesome plan for your life when the rest of world is telling you the opposite.

Where to Find a Mentor on Campus

Campus Ministry Groups – Almost every college has a ministry or group of Christian organizations. Look for ministries like Campus Crusade for Christ or InterVarsity on your campus. Christian groups on campus often offer small groups or one-on-one mentoring with students looking to remain strong in their faith along with staff with a Biblical perspective and real-life experience.

Local Church Groups – Churches near your college are great places to find mentorship programs for young men. Make visiting a few local churches a priority when you get to campus. They understand what it’s like to be on your own in a new environment. Many will run college-specific Bible studies and support groups to help students navigate life. And they might even hook you up with a good, home-cooked meal from time to time!

Student Life Office – Some universities have formal mentorship programs that can pair you with faith-based advisors who know the college environment. Ask around and see if there are any formal Christian mentoring programs available on your campus.

Christian Professors – Keep an eye out for professors who openly share their Christian faith. They may lead Bible studies or offer guidance during office hours. Remember, God has His people strategically placed everywhere. So while it may seem like a challenge to find a Christian professor, it’s not impossible.

Maximized Mentorship – How to Make the Most of It

Choose A Strong Mentor – Find someone who’s not afraid to tell you Bible-based truth, even if it might be hard to hear. Truth based on what God’s Word says, and not solely their opinion. They should refresh and encourage you without getting lost in sympathy and empathy. They speak the truth in love.

Choose A Mentor Who Gets It – Look for someone real about their past and their faith journey—someone who understands the challenges you’ll face. They don’t have to be a flawless role model, but they should be someone who’s successfully overcome similar struggles and can help guide you through yours. Don’t be afraid to “examine their fruit.” If their lives are more screwed up than yours, you might want to select someone else as a mentor.

Stay Connected– Once you find this mentor, don’t just meet once. Check in regularly, whether it’s over text or in person, to stay connected. College life moves fast, and staying connected will help you stay strong and remain accountable.

Be Open – Be honest and let your mentor know when you’re struggling. They are there to help, but only if they know what’s up. Don’t hold back.

Having a mentor guiding you through some of the toughest decisions you’ll face as you move toward the future God has for you is a total game-changer. So as you’re packing up for college, add “finding a mentor” to your priority list. With a strong, Christian mentor beside you, you’ll navigate college with confidence and keep your faith strong when the pressure’s on.

Got Your Back: Why Every Guy Needs a Mentor in College