Year: Senior 

Major: Intercultural studies 

Hometown: Friendswood, Texas 

Q: What led you to SAGU? 

The Holy Spirit lead me to go to SAGU. SAGU was the only Christian school at my high school’s college fair. The LORD lead me to go over and talk to the people and give them my information. I am so thankful for my obedience. 

Q: You started attending SAGU in person and are currently finishing up your degree online. What are the benefits of attending vs. the benefits of online classes?

 Attending SAGU in person was an amazing experience. You have people to pour into you. There are an abundance of resources for you to gain knowledge and even experience. I currently stay in Dearborn Michigan and it is predominantly muslim. Being online I can reach the people who God called me to be with. I have seen the LORD move in mighty ways among the Arab Muslims. It is a unique opportunity to be online and be around the people that God has called me to be around.

Q. What were you involved in while on campus? 

I had the opportunity to serve in SMA in prayer and advocacy, World outreach, Community outreach, and event team. 

Q: What aspects of campus life did you enjoy the most? 

I loved the fact that you can go anywhere on campus and have your personal time with God. 

Q: How was your experience with the ICS Department?  

It was very filling. I sat in rooms with some of the most passionate professors/missionaries from all over the world. They have inspired me and challenged me as well. 

Q: Have any professors positively influenced you during your time here? 

The one professor who influenced me the most would be Dr. Clarensau. Though he no longer teaches, his kindness and lectures are still in my heart. As well as Jerry Roberts. He has opened my eyes on how to adjust yourself for missions field.

Q: What drew you to ICS? What professional aspirations and goals do you have for the future? 

What drew me to ICS was the LORD and the love for people. I want to be a missionary working in the Middle East. I want to open a coffee shop to use as a mission ground for people to come and enjoy a cup of coffee, talk about Jesus, and start relationships with people.

Q. Tell us about your journey to becoming the leader of Arms of Refuge?

It started when I was doing missions training, and we had to do an easter egg hunt for the kids in the refugee neighborhood. That day, the LORD highlighted a family to me. And I wanted to join that ministry. When I interviewed for a volunteer position, I felt the Holy Spirit enter into the room of the interview. That was the first time I ever felt the Holy Spirit powerfully in an interview. I knew I was in the right place. A year later, the door for the leadership position was opened. I took advantage of the opportunity, and the LORD used the team in a powerful way. We were able to show the love of God through us to the refugees in Dallas. 

Q: How do you feel that your time at SAGU is preparing you for life after college? 

SAGU is preparing me for the mission field in many ways through the following of the Holy Spirit. I received hands-on experience working with Muslims and refugees from around the world. Through different classes and lectures, I am being armed with knowledge of God’s Word. Through missions training and trips, I am able to apply God’s Word in action. 

Q: How has your faith impacted the way you view your education and the personal goals you set for yourself? 

It has made me value getting a higher education in a Bible School. The LORD has called me to be a missionary to the Middle East. During my time at SAGU, I have been able to sit down and be poured into by wonderful people. Over my time at SAGU, I have come to realize that I needed the knowledge and wisdom from the professors and faculty. As a degree recipient, I can be even more effective in the Kingdom of God. 

Q: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen? 

I would say trust in God. Focus on Jesus and surround yourself with TRUE Godly people who are passionately going after Jesus and the things of Him. Remember that He will never leave you. And just say “yes” to Jesus and surrender all to him.