What Support will I Need?

To get a good idea of what your first year of seminary may be like read our first-year student journals

We recommend that students develop a Circle of Care
More Info on Circle of Care>>>

The seminary offers students a variety of support:

Formation In Personhood I groups are a primary way for students to connect and grow together. Spouses are invited and encouraged to attend Formation in Personhood I, and any may attend any other course with thier spouse on a non-credit basis.

Students may request to receive Spiritual Direction from a number of spiritual directors who are either learning spiritual direction, or already trained in spiritual direction. For students this service is free.

Students are eligible for several sessions of free professional counseling through the health services center at EMU.

Students will also need the support of family, friends and spouse. Seminary can be difficult and there will be times when it will require more energy than you think you have to give. At times like this the support of a spouse, family or good friends is vital.

Professors, the campus pastor or staff members also usually have time to talk, listen, or just sit with you as you process what you are learning and how you are hearing God's voice.

The support of a congregation is also important, whether it is a home congregation, or a local congregation in Harrisonburg.

Don't forget to have some fun. Whether you love hiking, watching a good movie, reading a book for fun, or listening to music, be sure to take time do what you love. You will learn about self-care as you journey through seminary. Take these lessons seriously because they are very important.

Don't forget that life happens. Just because you have a 10-page paper due tommorrow doesn't mean you are safe from family emergencies, personal trauma, illness or computer problems. When you really need it, ask for grace from professors.