My Faith & the University of Northampton

Faith at UON

The University of Northampton has been a great source of support, and a major contributor to my faith journey while living away from home and studying on campus. Needless to say, for students such as myself who prioritise their faith and center other aspects of their lives around it, having spaces for students to express this, exercise, and grow in their faith, particularly while at university is so important.

Being a Christian at UON

As a Christian, one of the most encouraging things I noted in my first few months at the University of Northampton, was the strong and active presence of a large variety of Christian societies on campus. As I walked through the corridors and around the campus grounds as a newbie, I was frequently met with personal invitations to some of these Christian societies or fellowships. It was particularly impactful, personable, and refreshing for me to be willingly engaged in conversations about my journey to the University of Northampton, my journey with God currently, and of course be made aware of what is available at this university to help me combine growing academically with growing spiritually.

Meeting with, and speaking with representatives of these societies around campus, definitely had an encouraging, positive impact on my faith journey, showing me that there were other students like me, boldly living out our faith even while at university, and using their stance as students, to reach out to other students in a relatable, genuine and passionate way.

Societies

Another very prominent contributor to my faith journey at university, was the University of Northampton freshers fair, where there were various Christian societies and student fellowships based both on and off campus. By exploring the various groups through stands, merchandise, creative and engaging activities, and flyers, I was able to come upon and decide on the fellowship I remained a part of for the duration of the academic year. Through the fellowship, I have had the opportunity to meet many likeminded Christian students like myself, develop new connections, and grow spiritually through prayer, Bible studies, worship, seasonal programmes and events e.g. Christmas parties, Valentine’s themed events etc. Undoubtedly, this has been a major source of grounding, fuel, friendship, wisdom, and encouragement for me throughout the academic year.

The Multi Faith Centre

Finally, the University of Northampton’s multi-faith centre also played a significant role in assisting in my faith journey while studying. The existence of such a space is one that is not always easy to come by outside of home or church for the Christian.

Having this on campus has ensured that there is always somewhere I can feel free to utilise for prayer times, or quiet times with God in the midst of a busy day on campus.

It has even served as a place where I can gather with my friends and spend time praying particularly during hectic and stressful exam periods.

So, if you are a student looking for ways to maintain and/or grow in your faith while studying on campus, I can commend the University for Northampton for making it possible and so easy to be a Christian (as this is my experience), while studying on campus.

Find out more about our Multi Faith centre at UON

Learn more about the Multi-Faith Centre

Destine Mbala

Destine is a Counselling Children and Young People’s MSc student. Her passions include writing, singing, and playing music in her spare time.