On Oct. 2 from 8-9 p.m. in Bowld Classroom 247, Union University students heard from Josh Krebs, counselor and staff member of the university, in a discussion titled “How to Not Die Alone”.
The event was not singles-only, but rather designed to foster open conversation for students of all backgrounds and relationship statuses.
After a brief introduction, which he joked that his wife insisted he include to prove his relationship credentials, Krebs began by detailing the importance of relationships.
Krebs stressed the importance of all relationships, not just romantic ones.
Highlighting the role of strong, healthy relationships with friends and family, Krebs explained how community is central to building a life of connection. He added that his belief in humanity’s need for community comes from his belief that people are created in the image of God.
After explaining the development of platonic relationships, Kreps spoke on how forming friendships is crucial to forming romantic relationships.
“The goal is to find the right person, not just a person,” Krebs said. “Knowing something won’t work is equally as important as knowing something will work.”
Tamarin Huelin, director for counseling services at Union, said the talk is part of a broader effort to create accessible opportunities for student engagement.
“We wanted to create something that students could engage in regardless of commitments,” Huelin said. “A come-and-go series led by passionate speakers.”
The students that participated said the conversation was insightful and different from what they expected.
Emma Hays, a junior accounting major, and Ryann Sleger, a junior theology studies major, said they came out of curiosity.
“I was definitely curious by the title,” Hays said. “If they’re trying to solve the problem of loneliness, how are they gonna do that?”
The lecture is the first in a series of come-and-go talks dedicated to student health and wellness, hosted by Counseling Services. The next session in the series will focus on relaxation.
“Man was not designed to be alone,” Krebs said. “Spoiler alert: relationships in general will keep you from dying alone.”