Little things that make a big difference!
One thing I find to be very interesting about life is daily interactions. My job is all about interacting with people and, to be more specific, college students. As a campus minister, I get the amazing opportunity to influence the next generation of leaders daily. But what I find funny is that it is neither my preaching nor my creative ideas that reach these students. It is my authenticity that does it. Not trying to pat myself on the back because I think I am lame. I love Jesus, CrossFit, Marvel, DC Comics, Anime, Podcasting, Family, and Friends. There is so much more I could name, but those are some of the main things. Pretty basic, don’t you think? Well, I think that’s what makes my influence that much more real. It’s not that I am some rich person or super intellectual. I am just a regular guy that likes to be a nerd and loves people right where they are. I just want my students to know I care!
I love having simple conversations with my students—just talking about life and how adulting isn’t easy. It’s in those moments I feel like I am giving them my most authentic self. Those conversations at times reach depths that I would never have reached between 18-22 years old. What I find most life-giving is how much they care about me. Every time we converse, they always ask about my personal life and how I am doing. It is always nice for people to ask how you’re doing, but when someone asks how is it with your soul, it hits different. You realize this is not the run-of-the-mill conversations where you say you’re okay, then move on. You can give genuine emotions. I think that level of care comes from leadership though. I was first asked that question at 22 years old by my campus minister, who is now my boss, funny enough. But that question has forever turned my world upside down, and I am so grateful. So I ask my students that question, and in return, they do the same.
Influence comes in many ways, shapes, and forms. I am just an ordinary guy working an extraordinary job. I’ve learned that it’s not my title that influences my students. Every day I am just myself, and slowly but surely, it has rubbed off on them. I just hope to continue being a good influence and that they go out and do the same!
Uncommon Legend 
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