Serving Well

Do’s
  • Do wear your Student Life apparel when possible so students can easily recognize you as part of the team.
  • Do greet every student warmly — a smile, eye contact, and a genuine “I’m glad you’re here” can make all the difference.
  • Do listen more than you talk. Students need to feel heard before they will ever hear what you have to say.
  • Do treat all students equally — whether they are outgoing or quiet, new or returning — each one deserves your full attention.
  • Do show grace. Students may not always act or speak the way you’d hope, but your patience and kindness will speak louder than words.
  • Do encourage respect among students. Step in gently if someone is being left out or treated unfairly.
  • Do point everything back to Christ’s love. Our ultimate goal is for students to know they are seen, heard, and loved by Him.
Don’ts
  • Don’t use sarcasm or jokes at a student’s expense. Your words carry weight, and what feels small to you could hurt deeply.
  • Don’t assume a student knows you care. Show it with your words, actions, and attention.
  • Don’t play favorites. Students notice when someone gets more attention than others.
  • Don’t engage in gossip or negative talk about students, leaders, or other volunteers.
  • Don’t dismiss a student’s questions or struggles. Even if you don’t have an answer, let them know you care and will walk with them in it.
  • Don’t forget that everything you do is a form of ministry. From setting up chairs to praying with a student, every action reflects Christ.
Volunteer Resources
Campus Plans

But What If...

We understand that working with teenagers can sometimes feel intimidating, but don’t worry, you don’t have to have all the answers.
Our team is here to walk alongside you and provide the support, tools, and encouragement you need to feel confident and at ease.
Below, you’ll find some of the most frequently asked questions from potential volunteers, along with helpful answers to guide you.

Students are talking over the speaker?

  • Politely remind them to lower their voices or wait their turn.
  • Redirect attention to the speaker or activity.

Students are using inappropriate or foul language:

  • Remind them calmly that Student Life is a safe and respectful space.
  • Avoid shaming; instead, reinforce positive behavior.

Students are being disrespectful to adults/leaders 

  • Intervene calmly and redirect the behavior.
  • Use clear, respectful language to reinforce expectations of respect.
  • If behavior continues, involve a Student Life staff member immediately.

Students have a verbal altercation or threaten to fight:

  • Separate the students immediately.
  • Notify a Student Life staff member.
  • Keep the situation calm and ensure other students are safe.

Students disclose self-harm or thoughts of hurting others:

  • Take all statements seriously.
  • Notify a Student Life staff member immediately following the discussion.
  • If the student is displaying dangerous thoughts/behaviors, stay with the student until help arrives; do not leave them alone.

Students disclose abuse (sexual, physical, or neglect):

  • Listen without judgment; do not pressure them to give details.
  • Notify a Student Life staff member.
  • Fill out a Student Life Care & Concern Report

Students disclose substance abuse:

  • Listen without judgment; do not pressure them to give details.
  • Try to avoid trying to fix the issue, but offer support.
  • Direct the student toward a Christ-centered support group

Students get physically aggressive/ fight:

  • Immediately intervene to separate students safely.
  • Call for school security assistance and ensure all students remain safe.
  • Notify Student Life Staff
  • Fill out the Student Life Incident Report