When I started looking at colleges, I knew I wanted to attend a Christian university. I actually applied to Liberty University first and got in, but once I looked at the financial side of things, I realized it just wasn’t realistic. That’s when I really started seeking the Lord for direction. I believed He would lead me where I needed to be. Not long after that, I came across Grace Christian University. I did some research, applied, and the rest is history. I truly believe Grace is exactly where God had already planned for me to be — a place where I could grow in my calling to be an ambassador for Christ. Like Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
A Major Rooted in Purpose
I’ve changed my major a couple of times, but I finally landed in Human Services, and it feels like home. I started in Leadership & Ministry, then tried Business, but neither felt quite right. Now I can say with confidence that this is where I’m meant to be. I’ve always been someone who speaks up for others, especially those who can’t speak for themselves. So being in this field just makes sense. It’s not just a major, It’s where I believe I’m called to serve.
This program has both challenged and inspired me in ways I didn’t expect. It’s pushed me to grow not just academically, but personally and spiritually. Some of the topics have been tough, especially when they hit close to home, but they’ve helped me see the bigger picture of why I’m called to this work. I’ve also been inspired by the support of the staff and the focus on serving others with compassion and integrity. It’s confirmed that I’m on the right path, and it’s given me the confidence to keep moving forward.
Encouragement Every Step of the Way
One of the biggest highlights of my time at Grace has been how encouraging and supportive the faculty and staff have been. My academic advisors always checked in on me, and even when I changed majors more than once, they never made me feel like a burden. They were patient and uplifting every step of the way.
Healing in the Hard Places
If I had to name one class that pushed me the most, it would be Research & Statistics. That course was hard for a lot of reasons. The first time I took it, I was really struggling, I had gone through something traumatic, and it made focusing in that class almost impossible. I didn’t handle it well, and I wasn’t the best student. So, when I had to retake it with the same professor, I was honestly dreading it. But something unexpected happened. I decided to talk to my professor, Ms. Dawn Rodgers-Defouw, and explain why I was having such a hard time. Ms. Dawn listened. She helped me talk through it. and with her support, I passed the class, with a B. That might not sound like much to some people, but for me, it was a huge deal.
The Vision God Gave Me
After graduation, I believe God is leading me to open something called The Triumphant Home. It will be a safe place for women who are transitioning out of prison, and their children, too. The goal is to provide a rent-free living environment for up to two years while they rebuild their lives, whatever that may look like for them. We’ll offer support with education, job placement, life skills, the things people need for a fresh start. Because of the courses I’ve taken at Grace, I’ve already developed a mission and vision statement, written a strategic plan, and obtained an EIN. I’m now working on the paperwork for 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. My next step is to begin seeking out sponsors and donations to bring this vision to life.
A Life Changed by Grace
Grace has truly been life-changing. It strengthened both my faith and my understanding of the Word of God. It shaped my heart for servanthood and leadership. It reminded me to stay humble and to walk alongside others with compassion and love. I’ve grown a lot. I have more confidence in myself now than I did when I first started. I know I’m capable of completing the mission the Lord has given me. And even when obstacles come up, I believe I’m equipped to face them.
