BethelParent A newsletter for parents of Bethel University students
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Issue 51/Spring 2011
Just Jay Get a new perspective on the latest ideas about Bethel, higher education, theology, and much more by reading the blog of President Jay Barnes. “Just Jay” reflects Barnes’ thoughts on topics as emotionally charged as same-sex attraction and as everyday as the Bethel late-night breakfast tradition. A recent post discussed the many financial strains faced by institutions of higher education in the current economy, as well as Bethel’s own approach to strategic planning in tough economic times. “Our first order of business has been to solidify our financial base,” says Barnes. “There may be hard choices ahead, but a solid base allows us to plan with confidence.” Bethel’s strategic plan tries to answer five key questions: 1. In what ways will we stand out from the 4,000+ universities and 250+ accredited seminaries in North America? (Strengthen distinctiveness) 2. How will a Bethel education connect with what God is doing in the world and help graduates serve in the world? (Commit to global engagement) 3. Does it matter that Bethel reflects the cultural, racial, and ethnic diversity in the Christian church and the broader world? (Commit to diversity) 4. Should Bethel’s education focus on existing locations and populations or reach more broadly? (Extend reach and reputation) 5. How will we strengthen our key resources – people, facilities, finances? (Strengthen human, financial, and facility resources). Barnes’ conclusion? “Challenging times–yes! A vital mission–absolutely! I pray for Bethel what I pray for our students– that we will exceed what is expected of us with God’s help.”
Check out the Just Jay blog at bethel.edu/president/blog. n
Keep Us Up to Date! Have you recently moved or changed your email address or phone number? Keep us up to date at bethel.edu/parents, where you can make changes to your contact information. We want to stay in touch with you!
Spring Banquet Needs Parent Volunteers Each May, before final exams begin, the entire student body gathers for the All-School Spring Banquet, a meaningful tradition that celebrates the completion of the school year and the beginning of summer break. Parent volunteers play an important role in this special event, and we need your help! This year’s banquet will be held May 14. We ask parent volunteers to help with set-up, serving, and clean-up, all while enjoying the company of other parents and interacting with the many students celebrating a successful year. When the dishes are cleared, we invite you to sit down and enjoy dinner as our guests. We need volunteers for the following shifts: • 24 parents to arrive at 5:30 p.m. • 44 parents to arrive at 6:15 p.m. • 80 parents to arrive at 6:40 p.m. Clean-up should be complete by 8:30-8:45 p.m. If you are able to stay a bit longer to take down tables and chairs, your help would be greatly appreciated.
If you are interested in volunteering at the 2011 All-School Spring Banquet, sign up at bethel.edu/parents. n
Summer Jobs and Internships In an uncertain economy, it is more important than ever for students to be proactive in seeking summer employment and internships. Encourage your student to use the resources of Bethel’s Office of Career Services to start that summer job search now. The Office of Career Services welcomes students’ inquiries and offers individualized assistance by qualified and caring career counselors. Here’s what students can do now to maximize their chances of landing a summer position: • Begin to consider the type of summer employment/ internship that will help to develop the skills necessary for your future career. • Build relationships with alumni and professionals who work in your area of interest. Ask them to discuss their personal career paths, and to share their advice for current college students looking to work in their field. Research shows that building relationships (networking) is the best job search strategy. • Narrow down your areas of interest and begin to prepare your resume and cover letter. • Meet with a Career Services counselor to review your resume and cover letter. He or she can also help you hone your interviewing skills. “One of the great benefits of summer employment is the opportunity for a student to explore a career field or organization prior to entering the work world,” says Tali Sanderson, career specialist in Bethel’s Office of Career Services. “This experience can help to clarify one’s interests and develop the skills necessary for a future career. It also provides the opportunity to build relationships with professionals, ask questions, and seek advice. This often leads to a job offer. “Employers contact Career Services every day and ask how they can post their positions for students and alumni,” Sanderson continues. “We strongly encourage students to register for our free Online Career Center and to make an appointment for individualized assistance by calling 651.638.6460.” Register for Career Services’ free Online Career Center at bethel.edu/ career-services/alumni/ online-career-center. n