A Fork in the Road

Monique Criddell (MDiv '12) had spent years studying cardiothoracic surgery as an undergrad. She was accomplished as co-author of several articles for respected medical journals. Without a doubt, she was well on her way to becoming a physician's assistant. But a new dream was budding in Monique's heart--a calling to serve youth and equip others to succeed.

The Call that Changed Everything

"Go to seminary." This resounding call from God stopped time for Monique. As she sat in a church pew, the pounding of her heart confirmed that a dramatic change of direction would be risky but worth every sacrifice. That day, she began a journey of faith that carried her to Baylor's George W. Truett Theological Seminary.

Monique came to Baylor with little savings, several bills and no prospect for employment. With the odds stacked against her, she began to wonder how her dream of a seminary education would ever be within reach.

"God had prepared the hearts of others--some of whom I may never meet--and prompted them to give sacrificially, so that someone like me could pursue a calling at Baylor and at Truett Seminary," Monique said.

Training for Life

Generous scholarship support allowed Monique to have hands-on training in her field. As part of the seminary curriculum, Monique served faithfully as Resident Chaplain for the South Russell Residence Hall and gained practical experience in pastoral care. She mentored younger college students, directing them to the right resources for their varied needs, and benefited from the guidance of the University Chaplain.

Now a recent graduate, Monique daily applies the skills she learned at Baylor's George W. Truett Theological Seminary as a Success Coach at McLennan Community College.

"I hope that in five years we have built a program where people who come to MCC start walking with advisors the week they come into college so no one falls through the cracks," she said.

Monique not only walks alongside students to help them achieve success, but also is privileged to help build this brand new initiative as the department seeks creative ways to reach students in developmental classes.

Scholarship support provided hope for Monique, and she in turn is paying that invaluable gift forward so that other students can reach their dreams.

Extraordinary Stories are unfolding at Baylor.

Set in motion before students ever set foot on our campus, their stories continue wherever their feet carry them. Write your own chapter in the life of a remarkable student like Monique. Baylor graduates are changing the world. And every gift, no matter the size, helps them get there.