Spiritual Formation for First Year Students: Shift

Our first-year spiritual formation experience, called Shift, helps incoming students build community, shift into college life, and learn more about what it means to be a follower of Jesus.

Your First Week at Bethel

When first-year students arrive for Welcome Week, tons of Bethel students are waiting to help them move in and get settled. Part of the move in the team includes Shift Leaders. It’s their goal to help each new student feel welcomed and loved.

The whole week is geared toward helping new students come together as a class, get to know one another, and have fun while building relationships.

Building Community on Each Floor

Shift Leaders are upper-class students committed to investing in the residents on a first-year dorm floor. They serve as mentors helping form relationships, building community, and asking the deeper questions of life and faith. Each Wednesday night they host “Shift," a time for their floor to hang out and to have a Bible based discussion about following Jesus and owning our faith. 

Shift for Commuter Students

We have Shift for commuters, too! It meets on Tuesday and Thursday from 10:15-11 a.m., when no classes are held. It meets in the Loft.  

Get Involved

If you are a new student, get to know your Shift Leaders and join in the community they are creating on your floor or in the Loft. If you are interested in becoming a Shift Leader, apply here and contact Pastor Jenna Holst at jer55986@bethel.edu.