In our recent Dev Talk session, we dove into how professional development and spiritual growth go hand in hand during your college journey. With some great speakers leading the way, we explored how ProDev is more than just a job—it can be a space for personal and spiritual growth. We talked about staying grounded in integrity, like with phone use at work, to facing the challenges of ministry in tough situations. The goal? To help you understand better the expectations in our Professional Development Program and grow spiritually, becoming globally aware, and ready to succeed in your future career while living out your faith.

In this blog, three professionals share their valuable insights on the unique aspects of the Professional Development program, offering a deeper understanding of its impact and effectiveness.

Zach Hartnell, one of the speakers, articulated that ProDev should not be viewed through the lens of traditional employment. He emphasized that it is not fundamentally transactive, meaning it is not just about the exchange of labor for pay. Instead, ProDev aims to transform students' perspectives on work and their roles within it.

For example, Zach mentioned that many students enter the workforce with a transactional mindset, where they clock in and out, focusing solely on their output. However, ProDev encourages students to view their roles as opportunities for personal and professional transformation. This perspective shift allows students to engage more meaningfully with their work and the people around them.

Zach also highlighted that ProDev is not a "McJob," a term used to describe low-level, disposable jobs that lack value. Instead, ProDev offers students a chance to engage in meaningful work that contributes to their growth and the community. He pointed out that students have access to mentors and resources that help them navigate their professional journeys, making the experience far richer than typical work-study roles.

Transactional vs. Transformation

1. More Than a Job

ProDev isn’t just a job or work-study but a deeply transformative experiential journey.

2. ProDev is not a traditional work study program.

ProDev has paycheck and scholarship combined. The program gives a personal paycheck along with contributing to your tuition through scholarship.

3. ProDev is Not Your McJob

It focuses on holistic growth with personal and professional development, encouraging participants to see employment as an opportunity for growth, contribution, and deeper purpose in their work.

Conclusion:

ProDev goes beyond being just a job, offering a transformative experience that emphasizes both personal and professional growth. Unlike traditional work-study programs, it combines a paycheck with a scholarship, making it a unique opportunity for meaningful work and tuition support.

Now you know what to say when someone asks, “What is ProDev?” ;)

Professor Kagay addressed the pervasive issue of phone use in the workplace, outlining several problems associated with it. One of the most striking statistics she shared was that Americans touch their phones an average of 2,617 times a day. This constant interaction can lead to distractions that compromise focus and productivity.

For instance, she explained that every time an employee checks their phone, it can take up to 30 minutes to regain their original focus on the task at hand. This not only affects individual performance but can also impact team dynamics and overall workplace efficiency.

Moreover, Professor Kagay pointed out the safety risks associated with phone use, particularly in environments where employees are responsible for the well-being of others, such as childcare or food service. She emphasized that phones are often dirtier than toilet seats, which raises hygiene concerns in food-related jobs.

To combat these issues, she suggested practical solutions like batching notifications and implementing focus modes on phones. By taking control of their phone use, employees can enhance their productivity and maintain a professional demeanor in the workplace.

Solutions:

Set clear phone-use boundaries, batch notifications, and use focus modes to minimize interruptions.

Mr. Sherrod shared his insights on navigating challenging ministry environments, emphasizing that good ministry is fundamentally about people. He encouraged students to take charge of their roles, citing Joshua 1:9, which calls for strength and courage in the face of challenges.

“I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

- Joshua 1:9

He stressed the importance of setting clear expectations and rules within ministry programs. For example, he recounted a situation where he had to dismiss a student from a program due to behavioral issues. Instead of viewing this as a punitive action, he framed it as a necessary step to uphold the integrity of the program and ensure that all participants could benefit from it.

Mr. Sherrod also highlighted the significance of setting a positive tone in ministry settings. He shared an example of how Rob Munoz, a past Academy for GOD teacher, transformed mundane announcements into engaging productions, which set a lively atmosphere for the entire event. This approach not only captured the audience's attention but also fostered a sense of community and excitement.

Lastly, he emphasized the need for discernment in ministry work. He encouraged students to notice the quieter individuals who may need support, rather than only focusing on the loudest voices. By being observant and proactive, students can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone involved.

2. You Set the Tone

Lead by Example: Your attitude sets the tone—stay positive and approachable. In ministry environments, leadership not only sets the tone through positivity but also by upholding expectations through their actions. When leaders model the behaviors, values, and standards they expect from others, it reinforces a culture of integrity and accountability. By consistently demonstrating commitment, respect, and dedication, leaders inspire those around them to follow suit, creating an environment where everyone is aligned in their purpose and mission.

4. You Pray

In ministry environments, regular prayer serves as a powerful source of guidance, helping leaders and teams stay aligned with their mission and values. It also provides strength and emotional support during challenging moments, fostering resilience and a deeper connection to the divine purpose in their work..

5. You Bring You

In ministry environments, leveraging your unique gifts allows you to contribute meaningfully while also recognizing and celebrating the diverse talents within your team. By valuing each individual’s strengths and fostering an environment of collaboration, you create a dynamic and harmonious team that is better equipped to serve and achieve the ministry's goals.

The Professional Development program is a unique experience and a great opportunity to learn and practice skills for personal and professional needs. This overview aims to clarify the ProDev program and its emphasis on growth, purpose, and meaningful work. It highlights how ProDev offers more than just a job, creating opportunities for personal and professional development. Happy ProDev-ing!