My college journey, like most parts of my life, has been full of unexpected twists and turns. When I started my freshman year, I never imaged that I would be here, at the University of Mobile.
My First Plan
The original plan was to complete two years at my community college and then attend a large public university to complete my bachelor’s degree. I made it to that university, but things were not working out like I had planned. I wanted something different.
During this time, stories that my mom told me about the University of Mobile, her alma mater, started to pop into my mind frequently. One night I received a call from my brother who lived in Texas. He asked me, “If you could go to any school, where would you want to go?”
My first thought was the University of Mobile, but I assumed a private Christian school would not be financially feasible. He responded, “Okay. It can’t hurt to try and see if you can.” Next thing I know, it was two weeks later, and my mom and I stood on the campus for a UM Day!
I remember turning to my mom and saying, “This is where I’m supposed to be. I know it sounds crazy, but I feel at peace here.” I carried that peace which comes with following God’s will through the rest of the transfer process.
My Hope Becomes Reality
With the help and determination of my UM admissions and financial aid counselors, I received scholarships and financial aid which made my hope of coming to UM a reality.
It was an amazing experience getting to sit back and watch as the Lord moved all the roadblocks that would have prevented me from attending. Because of Him and some great people, I was able to step onto campus in the Spring semester as a University of Mobile transfer student for the first time.
The Lord is Faithful
I have met many students with stories similar to mine, who have clearly felt and seen the Lord’s faithfulness in leading them to this university. And like them, the heart of my University of Mobile story is this: As long as I follow my God, He promises to lead.
“The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
Schedule a Campus Visit
Editor’s Note: Our students tell us that they knew from the first moment they stepped on campus that the University of Mobile would be their college home, just like Noelle experienced. See for yourself and schedule a campus visit or RSVP for a UM Day at umobile.edu/umday-info.
Pictured at top: Joeann Sale Foster ’92, and daughter Noelle Foster wearing their University of Mobile sweatshirts. Inset photo was taken on their UM Day visit.
Noelle Foster is an intern in the Office of Marketing and Public Relations at the University of Mobile. She is a full-time student in the College of Arts and Sciences, where she is pursuing a degree in Communication with a concentration in Journalism and Broadcasting along with a minor in History. When she is not studying or researching, Noelle enjoys going on walks, listening to music, and spending time with her family and friends.