Despite growing up in Mount Olive, Gregory had never visited the UMO campus until her college search began. ‘After a campus tour, I knew that UMO would be where I would pursue my education,’ she shared.
Despite growing up in Mount Olive, Gregory had never visited the UMO campus until her college search began. ‘After a campus tour, I knew that UMO would be where I would pursue my education,’ she shared.
Despite growing up in Mount Olive, Gregory had never visited the UMO campus until her college search began. ‘After a campus tour, I knew that UMO would be where I would pursue my education,’ she shared.
University of Mount Olive Christian Studies major Katelyn Gregory had always felt a deep connection to her faith, which guided her college selection process. “Although my parents begged me to apply to many more schools, I applied to only two: Liberty University and the University of Mount Olive,” Gregory recalls. “My relationship with Christ has always played a huge role in my decisions, and I knew that both of these schools exemplified my values and the core of who I am.”
Despite growing up in Mount Olive, Gregory had never visited the UMO campus until her college search began. “After a campus tour, I knew that UMO would be where I would pursue my education,” she shared. “I learned very quickly that I was not a number at UMO. The faculty and staff care about my needs, education, and future.”
Financial concerns initially overshadowed Gregory’s collegiate aspirations, but the Golden LEAF Foundation Scholarship turned that dream into reality. “I am so thankful for the generosity of the Golden LEAF Foundation,” Gregory expressed. “This scholarship is allowing me to pursue the path that God has in store for me, and for that, I am forever grateful.”
Gregory began her studies in the nursing program but soon switched to Christian Studies to become a counselor. “I had decided that no matter where I worked, I wanted to serve others,” she said. Gregory’s journey took another turn when she felt a calling to become a Christian Studies professor. “I want to teach religion,” she said. So many UMO professors have played a huge role in my life, and I decided that I want to be that person to other students in the future.
In the summer of 2023, Gregory completed an internship through the Golden LEAF Foundation at her home church, Bethel. “This was one of the most rewarding experiences,” she said. “It allowed me to seek direction about where God was calling me. The staff and pastors at my church allowed me to see every area of ministry from every angle.” This experience solidified her desire to teach.
At UMO, Gregory is actively involved as a ministry leader, worship leader, and small group leader. This summer, she is completing an internship with University Ministries through the Unified Pathway Project. “During my time at UMO, my heart to teach has grown even more, and my passion for learning more about The Lord has increased. I have been able to pursue my degree and obtain my education while still serving in ministry, gaining leadership experience, and building some of the greatest friendships and mentors I’ve ever had.”
Looking to the future, Gregory aspires to continue her education and potentially return to UMO as a professor in the Religion Department. “I would love to pour into students like my professors have poured into me,” she said. “I want to continue growing in the knowledge and passion for the Lord in hopes of inspiring other students who have the same love for studying the Word of God and getting to know Him more and more every day.”
The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The University was founded by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists. For more information, visit www.umo.edu.
