Pathways to Service in Urban Social Service or Ministry

Network, network, network! Start with people at Bethel who are involved in urban life or ministry. Then, introduce yourself to Twin Cities people working in your area of interest (Twin Cities Resource Network, Catholic Charities, Park Avenue Methodist Church foundation, Urban Ventures, American Indian Center, etc.). Just give a call, and ask to come visit and learn about their organization.
Volunteer service. Choose a volunteer site in an area of interest, both in terms of location and services offered. For opportunities during the semester, check out Twin Cities Outreach (Campus Ministries), Career Services, or simply call an agency and ask if you can volunteer. For longer-term opportunities (summer, semester, or year), checl out denominational agencies such as Christian Reformed World Relief Services, Mennonite Central Committee, Lutheran Volunteer Corps, or Mission Year. Look in the reference section of the library for overseas opportunities.
Intern. Bethel offers internship services through Career Services, and for our department, through Tricia Angulo. Her job is to hlp you develop a successful internship - make use of her!
Check out Career Services. Bethel's Career Services office offers many useful services including resume development, interest assessments, graduate school exam information, and interview skill development. Set up an appointment at the front desk, and talk with someone there. Even if - especially if! - you are unsure of your interests, Career Services can help you explore and develop service and career goals.
Develop skills. Look broadly at your courses, and develop as many skills as possible. Qualitative and quantitative research methods, ethnographic field experiences, foreign languages, and computer skills are all important parts of what you can offer an organization.
Develop knowledge. Look broadly at Bethel courses, and take courses or a minor in related areas. Consider Bible and theology, economics, political science, social work, modern world languages, and history. If you are especially interested in one group of people (children, youth, adults, seniors, Sudanese, Somali, African-American, Caucasians, etc.), look for courses tthat will expand your knowledge of specific cultures.
Move to the city. Consider relocating to the city, even if only for a summer. There's nothing like real urban experience to challenge stereotypes and myths, and to inspire real passion for serving God in the city.