I found friends who speak into my life and remind me what God says about me at Citygate Students!

Hear about how the community at Citygate Students supported, shaped, and impacted Euphemia, a recent graduate, throughout her University journey.

On route to Bangers & Mosh end-of-year party 2025.

What Drew You to Citygate Students?

I had visited Citygate during the summer holidays before I moved to Bournemouth, so I knew of the church. Then I made a new friend in my accommodation who turned out to be a Christian, and she said she was going to Citygate Students, so we decided to go together for the first time. She's now one of my closest friends, so that’s really cool! As soon as I stepped foot at Students, I was embraced and welcomed with open arms. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly. There was no denying the love that was in the room, and it didn't take long for me to feel at home. But also, it was the spiritual food I was getting; the teachings, the worship sessions, the Bible study groups. They were genuinely impactful and exactly what I needed in that season. 

Over the years, I became more involved in serving at Students. It's so easy to willingly serve in such a loving community. In my second year, I was part of the Student team and helped out on a Tuesday evening, as well as at any social events we did. In my third year, I was a GEM group leader, which helped me grow in confidence a lot. Looking back, I wish I did even more!

What’s One of Your Favourite Memories?

I have way too many to pick from. From the prophetic ministry, to the countless guest speakers, to the spontaneous worship sessions. If I had to pick one, I would probably say the Bangers & Mosh end-of-year students’ party. I look forward to it every year, as it never disappoints. I always laugh a lot, dance a lot, and cry a lot (from the worship and from saying bye to the people graduating). 

A memory which had a big impact on me spiritually was a Home & Away Weekend in my second year. We had a sleepover at the church, and it was a weekend full of fun, games, worship, prophetic ministry, edifying teachings, good food, and small group Bible studies. I learnt a lot that weekend and I left confident that God truly speaks to me and He truly sees me. 

Students on a walk at Weekend Away 2025, Shaftesbury.

How Did the Community Support You Through Challenges at Uni?

Worship at Student Weekend Away 2025.

Some of my most impactful moments at Students have been through the small group prayers at the end of a Tuesday night. We usually share what we need prayer for. Those prayers carried me through University and comforted me, especially when I’d had a particularly challenging day or was stressed about university or family issues. 

Students has provided me with the best support system. Friends who speak into my life and remind me what God says about me. Friends who show up and show out in every way.

In What Ways Have You Grown?

By having been given the opportunity to serve as a leader at Students, I've truly grown in confidence. I'm more confident in public speaking and talking to a room full of people. I've learnt how to come alongside someone and pray with them and comfort them. I've learnt how to make people feel welcomed and loved, especially when they are new to the environment. I've learnt how to honour those around me. And I've learnt how to freely worship.

The biggest thing that I’ll carry with me into the next season of life is making people feel welcomed and loved, no matter who they are. I’m praying for God to bring alongside more people I can love and serve in this next chapter.

What Advice Would You Give to Current Citygate Students?

I want to end with some advice that helped me through uni, which is to grab hold of the opportunities presented before you. Learn to say yes to things, even if they're completely out of your comfort zone. You truly don't know what you're capable of sometimes until you give it a go. You will grow so much and learn a lot about yourself just by saying yes. Obviously, be sensible and pray for wisdom along the way, but uni is the time to push yourself, make lots of mistakes, and discover who you are. And have fun!

What Will You Miss the Most?

Katie and Gordon's love, leadership and care!

By Euphemia Olaiya