Many BGU graduates want to help current students succeed but feel they lack the financial resources to contribute. Yet most BGU students come through relationships and word of mouth, which means every graduate already has the ability to make a significant contribution by introducing new potential students to what BGU has to offer. Each bimonthly BGU newsletter will highlight a few simple ways to do just that.

Tool #2: Ask Their Story; Tell Your Story

Not every leader needs a graduate degree to steward their God-given calling. But many of the people you work with may benefit from hearing why you pursued one and how it has helped you.

The conversation starts with a simple question: "What has God called you to?"

Our first call is obedience and a deepening trust of God. This is a pursuit of a growing relationship with him and with others. Yet many people also carry a sense of vocational and missional calling, often tied to the gifts God has given them and the doors God has opened.

Simply asking someone to articulate that calling, to someone who is actively listening, helps them find new clarity. Your feedback on what you're hearing can deepen their understanding further.

Many BGU graduates tell us they enrolled thinking the degree itself was the main goal with a credential that would increase their influence. By the end, most say the degree was certainly valuable, but the greatest benefit was the people they met and the way BGU reshaped their perspective on God's work in the world. As you listen to someone's story and sense that their calling might be well served by connecting with a global network of leaders, encountering God's movements in new ways, and earning a degree, that is a natural moment to share your own BGU story.

Many influential leaders also hesitate to enroll because they feel too busy, or they quietly wonder whether they can handle the academic work. Sharing how you managed a full work and family life while pursuing a degree at a pace that didn't upend your rhythms can help someone see that what feels impossible may actually be within reach.

I am grateful for all you do to help those in your care pursue their calling. When that means connecting them with the BGU family, we are ready to work alongside you to coach those you entrust to us toward a successful application, graduation, and beyond.

Dr. Brad Smith

Chancellor