Throughout my high school experience I have questioned my future almost everyday. I had all of these big ideas, plans, and goals. I never thought that I would be where I am today.  

I have wanted to do many things with my life like becoming a missionary, first responder, nurse, and journalist. However, now that I am towards the end of my senior year, I have finally made the decision of how I am going to further my education. Making this decision was one of the hardest things I had to do, yet it was also the easiest. 

I prayed everyday as I worried about my future and if I would make the wrong decision. However I realized I was asking God the wrong questions. I started praying for guidance and clarity not only for my future but also for the present. I soon became overwhelmed with the feeling that I needed to apply for Ozark Christian College. Ozark is a school I have been interested in for years, but I never thought I would be courageous enough to apply. I knew that if I didn’t apply I would regret it, so I submitted an application just to see if I would get accepted. The night I submitted my application I asked God to place me on the path he had for me.The next day I got a phone call from Ginny Davis, my admissions counselor at Ozark Christian College. She called to answer any questions I might have as well as asking how she could pray for me. In that moment I knew that Ozark was where God wanted me. I felt like a weight was lifted off of my shoulders and I would not only be following my passion but also pursuing a career spreading God’s word. 

Two days after submitting my application Ginny called me a third time, though this time it was different. She wanted to personally tell me that I was accepted and would be receiving a $24,000 scholarship. I was so overwhelmed with joy knowing Ozark is the place I will follow my dreams and build onto my happiness. I did not tell anyone that I applied because I wanted it to be between God and I. I knew that if I were to tell anyone I might be influenced differently so I wanted this to be purely in the hands of God. The moment I found out about my acceptance I cried knowing I could finally let go of all the stress and anxiety I have been holding onto for the past four years concerned about my future.

I knew I wanted to tell my journalism teacher, Stacey Jones first. She was the only person I had told that I submitted an application. I went to her when I found out and we cried happy tears together and she gave me the best hug and pep talk I have ever had. She made me become proud of myself and in that moment I realized she was more than just a teacher to me. Mrs. Jones became like family to me, she supported me and got me through so much especially in these past six months alone. 

I believe that God is placing me in ministry school because I am so passionate about helping others not only physically but also mentally and through my faith. If I wouldn’t have submitted my application that night after praying I don’t think I would be in the situation I am in now. I have grown so much these past few months and my faith has also gotten stronger. I believe that my faith is going to continue to grow as I begin attending Ozark Christian College in the fall. Surrendering fully to God was the best decision I have ever made. He has helped me in many ways through all of my mental and physical illnesses, as well as the challenge of losing my two great grandmothers. I am so grateful to call myself an Ozark Ambassador. I also am so amazed that I get to see Jeremiah 29:11 become true in my life.