At Andrews University, ministry is heavily encouraged. One of the most impactful ways students can engage in this mission is by becoming student missionaries. Student missions temporarily pause their university experience to serve in various roles—such as teachers, medical assistants, and more—across the globe. Many student missionaries are placed in Micronesia, Africa, South America, and other locations worldwide. This opportunity is open to any student interested and committed, offering not only a chance to serve those in need but also a life-changing experience for those who decide to go on this journey.
However, while these experiences abroad are rewarding, the challenges of returning home and readjusting to college life are often overlooked. The Andrews Student Missions program seeks to support its student missionaries in various ways, not only when they are serving abroad, but also after they come back home. Through these efforts, student missionaries find various coping mechanisms and support networks to help ease their transition back into university life.
The positive impact of these experiences is evident in the testimonies of returning student missionaries. Andre Canubas (senior, medical laboratory science), a returning missionary from Kosrae, Micronesia, described the experience as the best year of his life, saying, “Experiencing such a unique culture, the beautiful island life, and, best of all, bonding with the kids made it all worth it.” Memo Rodriguez (sophomore, psychology and spanish), a student who served in Bolivia as a kindergarten teacher and assistant house parent, shared that his experience has left him with lifelong memories and relationships.
Student missions not only allow one to grow their teaching or medical skills but can contribute to personal growth as well. Jessica Yi (senior, biology), who served in Majuro, Marshall Islands, described her year as an environment for her to grow without distractions, allowing her time to think about her future endeavors without the pressure of university. Caitlin Adap (sophomore, elementary education), a returning missionary preschool teacher from Pohnpei, Micronesia, found her experience to be both surprising and fulfilling. “My intentions were to make a difference in people’s lives, but it was my own world that changed. I went through so much self-growth and developed a much stronger faith in God and His capabilities.”
Despite this amazing experience, transitioning from a service-oriented environment to the demands of college life can be difficult. For many student missionaries, returning home and reuniting with loved ones is a highly anticipated moment, especially after serving across the country for a year or more. However, the challenges of returning often include reverse culture shock, feelings of disconnection, and difficulty finding a sense of purpose back on campus. “The transition from teacher to student is a bit difficult, especially since my students in Pohnpei gave me such a clear sense of purpose,” says Caitlin, reflecting on her return to college life. Jessica expressed a similar sentiment, sharing that she “feels like something is missing” now that she's filling her time with studying and working towards her future career goals.
Andre also described experiencing culture shock, not only due to the academic demands of his senior year but also the different environment on campus compared to what he left behind. Despite these challenges, returning student missionaries often find a strong sense of community with the other returning missionaries and are able to discuss their experiences and relate to one another, providing a valuable support system.
The director of Student Missions under the Center for Faith Engagement, Teela Ruehle, organizes events and gatherings throughout the academic year to support returning student missionaries. These events provide a space for missionaries to share their experiences, reflect on their journeys, and connect with one another. Jessica described the recent fall re-entry retreat as a time of “refreshment and rejuvenation,” adding that it left her feeling spiritually nourished. The retreat helped students process their transition back to university life and worship together. Memo shared that talking with his fellow missionaries helped him feel less isolated in his feelings of missing his students and experience in Bolivia.
Returning student missionaries bring a valuable perspective to the campus community, inspiring others to consider service. For those considering student missions, the advice from returning missionaries is clear: Take the leap and embrace the opportunity for growth and service. “I haven't met anyone who regrets becoming an SM,” says Caitlin. “It can be scary or overwhelming, but you'll discover so many good things about God and yourself, and you'll experience lots of love from your new community.”
Andre says, “It may seem daunting and challenging, but just know that if God is calling you to the field, He will certainly be by your side.” Jessica encouraged flexibility and a willingness to grow, saying, “The unknown makes it exciting. You won't regret it."
Memo advises students to “Pray about it…and know that you don’t have to feel qualified for a job in order to serve. If you have a heart for service, God can and will use you in powerful ways, even in ways that you never thought were possible.”
The unique opportunity to travel and serve a purpose greater than oneself is an amazing one, as serving abroad not only contributes to that community but to your own personal development. Despite the temporary challenges of returning home, the rewards of the experience last for life. To learn more about missionary opportunities, visit the “Missions” page on the Andrews University website or email sm@andrews.edu for more information.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.