Every student’s college experience looks a little different. Some find their place on sports fields, others in the lab or studio, and some in the countless clubs and events that fill the campus calendar. Between study sessions and late-night events, there’s always something to be part of! But, for students searching for purpose beyond the classroom, Student Missions offers something special. More than just a club, Student Missions is a community built on faith, service and connection. It’s a space where students come together to make a difference; whether that’s through local outreach, mission trips or simply encouraging one another to live with compassion and purpose. In a world that moves fast, Student Missions reminds students to slow down, look outward and use their gifts to serve others.
To learn more about how the club continues to grow and inspire students, I spoke with Shira Frost, the secretary of Student Missions. She shared insight into the club’s principles, what makes it so meaningful and the impact it’s had on both her and the campus community.
“Our main purpose is really helping students have the chance to go on a mission trip and supporting those who currently are!” Shira said the club does this by sending current student missionaries care packages and acts as a support system for them. They do not only reach out to those overseas. The Student Missions team is intentional about hosting outreach events for the surrounding community. “We do outreach events, like to the community and churches, vespers, we help with Christmas Behind Bars, student missions retreats, and things like that.”
Shira then reflected on the impact Student Missions has had on her personally, even before she was an officer. In July of 2023, Shira began her mission work in Pohnpei, Micronesia, where she served for 11 months. “When I was a student missionary, whenever I received a package from the student missions club, it made me feel like I was still a part of something here at Andrews, even if I was literally on the other side of the world.”
The support Student Missions provides through their ministry is invaluable to those ministering so far from home, and this seemingly ‘little’ act can mean so much more to the person receiving it. This is the heart of Student Missions, and it’s a beautiful thing they bring to the table. Another fond memory Shira had was something that took place last year. “One of my favorite memories of being a part of this club is during last year’s SM retreat, and there was just a group of us sitting around a campfire singing our hearts out. It was just such a beautiful moment.”
When asked about the club’s biggest accomplishments, Shira reflected on the amount of work and effort it takes to send students overseas. “I think some of our biggest accomplishments is being able to send students across the world to be missionaries. That may seem cliche, but the amount of time, money…and coordination it takes to be able to do that really does make it a huge feat.”
Student Missions is a club that provides opportunities to minister inside and outside of the community. The spirit of service that they have as a club is a wonderful thing. “I think the club definitely helps with building strong connections for our campus,” Shira said. “...Because not only are we reaching out and serving our fellow students here at Andrews, but also the students who are doing missions in a whole different country.” This club provides many wonderful opportunities to serve others and truly use your talents for good! Shira ended with this inspirational quote. “The main thing I hope students take away from joining our club is that you don’t need to go to another country or travel to the other side of the world to be a missionary. You can still serve your community here on campus.”
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.