Annetty Ledesma, from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, did not expect the changes that were in store for her when she arrived in Kansas City.
“My family moved to Kansas to pastor a Hispanic church in Kansas City,” says Annetty. “It was very unexpected; one of those detours the Lord sometimes takes us on for His glory.”
Annetty explains she chose to attend MNU because it was close to her Kansas home and that she wanted to remain close to family after their big move.
“Studying as an undergraduate in the U.S. is different than in my country, but I have learned so much from my classes and spiritual formation activities,” says Annetty. “The idea of attending a Nazarene university seemed an impossible dream for my family, but God had different plans that continue to amaze us.”
Annetty graduates from MNU in May 2021 with a major in psychology. Her favorite thing about MNU has been the incorporation of faith and psychology, as well as the people at MNU who have helped her grow.
“There were class sessions in which God spoke to me, even though they were not theological classes,” she says. “That says a lot about the heart of the people working here.”
When asked which classes she had enjoyed most throughout her time at MNU, Annetty had a hard time narrowing it down to just one.
“All of the staff and faculty here are filled with the Holy Spirit,” says Annetty. “They truly do care about you.”
As she nears the end of her college career at MNU, Annetty shared some of her plans.
“After graduation, I will attend graduate school to study clinical psychology,” Annetty says. “My goal is to serve the Hispanic community, especially those who are often ostracized or misunderstood because of their mental illness. Above all, though, I want to pay attention to God’s voice to see where He wants me to go next!”
With an abundance of wisdom and life experiences to share, Annetty picked one piece of advice to pass on to future Pioneers.
“My experience at MNU has been challenging in a good way and a blessing,” she says. So, to anyone coming to MNU—keep your mind and your heart open. College is an eye-opening experience for everyone, but if you come to MNU, it can also be life-changing if you lean into what God wants to do.”