Inside-Out Hospitality

Have you ever felt lonely in a new environment? Say a new job, town, country, or school? What are some things people did to make you feel welcomed or settle in better? Today, we will discuss why and how we can show hospitality to university students.

For most people, university is a moment of transition, usually an introduction to adulthood. Some even start living alone. From my observation, the quality of one’s interactions during university defines a significant part of one’s perspective on leadership, politics, economic standing, spirituality, and general perspective towards society.

To better understand this exciting yet challenging phase in life, I’d love to share some easy tips on showing hospitality to university students! I’ll also include three valuable insights from my mentor’s wonderful home-away-from-home experience towards me!

As a fellow student

In the early days of university life, most people are still totally new to that environment and don’t even know what to expect. Some have left their hometowns to be there, and others might even have trouble with their primary language (I had people in my class who only knew English but had to attend lectures in French). So, be kind in your words and in your actions.

• Laughing at their efforts to speak the new language would be foolish. Instead, you could offer to teach them the language.
• Put on that smile that makes a warm atmosphere around you.
• Learn their names and check up on them.
• Initiate conversations, e.g. getting to know which school or town they are from
• Be open to sharing valuable and verified information, e.g. how to survive in the new city.

As a neighbour

One of the valuable lessons I have learned from my mother over the years is sharing. I have often had to ask new and old neighbours to give me their dishes so my mother can serve them food. 

• That new student in your mini-cite probably doesn’t even have pots yet (haha). Sharing a meal with them will always be helpful.
• Invite them over for events such as Christmas.
• Share groceries occasionally (they have probably been ‘soaking garri’ for a week now!)

Nonetheless, remember that the neighbourhood here is not limited to geographical location; it could also be in the context of Mark 12:31.

The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.” (Mark 12:31)

Be that good Samaritan who is always willing to reach out with transport fare, a Christmas invitation, and much more, offering a home-away-from-home experience.

Storytime

I vividly remember one of my prayer points: to live alone for some time before getting married (don’t judge!). That’s because I went through my academic curriculum from primary school to university living with my parents. However, as a university student in my final year, I used to spend some days at my mentor’s place, and here are a few things that stood out for me back then.

1.Bonding activities

My mentor is passionate about hairdressing, and she made a part-time hustle out of it. Though I didn’t know much about hairdressing, I accompanied her to most of her appointments to the extent that her friends thought I was her apprentice.

One of them even asked on one occasion, and she answered that I was there for moral support. I found that response heartwarming, and gave me a great sense of belonging.

For you, it could be studying together, movie time, shopping, cooking, or any other activity that allows you to spend time with your guests and gives them a sense of belonging.

2. Wi-Fi Access

In today’s world, it can be tough for students to succeed without internet access since it has become such an essential part of learning. Sharing your Wi-Fi code can make a big difference for a student in need, and it really goes a long way to help them out!

3. Kindness and patience

Of all the bonding activities with my mentor, cooking together was my favourite (of course, it would be closely followed by eating). However, I got the food burnt quite several times in that process. I also flopped in many activities, usually losing time and/or money. Still, my mentor always corrected me with kindness and a healthy dose of indulgence. This permitted me not to shy away from her presence but rather stay open-minded and teachable.

As a host, it’ll be helpful to remember that your guest is most likely at that stage of life where they are still trying to figure out many things. Some kindness, patience, and constructive criticism will go a long way toward building them up, and they will also enjoy being around you.

Final Thoughts

Hospitality is not just about opening your home—it’s about opening your heart. When university students experience genuine care and belonging, their experience changes entirely.

Let’s be those who show up, make space, and extend the love of Jesus in the little ways that matter most.

Do you have any university students around you? How can you share the love of Christ with them this week?

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Until next time.