Finding A Path Forward

Fall 2018 - Recent graduate Marijose Garza found her calling at Baylor. Equipped and inspired by the transformational undergraduate education she received on campus, Marijose is now finding fulfillment and meaning through new endeavors as she embarks on the next stage of her life's journey.

Today, Marijose says that only through scholarships and the encouragement of many along the way was she able to fully claim the Baylor experience as her own and, empowered by that experience, shine by her own lights in faith and service to a world in need.

The San Antonio native eventually majored in entrepreneurship at Baylor after having initially pursued the subject as a minor to accompany an interior design degree. However, the passion of a Baylor business professor inspired Marijose's interest in social entrepreneurship as a way to live out the Great Commission. An opportunity to participate in the Social Entrepreneurship study abroad program in Africa allowed her to experience the impact of her chosen field, further illuminating her calling.

"My formation at Baylor was not only academic, it was also spiritual and apostolic," Marijose said.

Blessed by Baylor

Guided by her faith, Marijose knew she wanted to attend Baylor. Her first campus visit affirmed that desire as she witnessed the University's Christian commitment lived out in the classroom and through students who welcomed and embraced her.

"I knew I wanted to be a part of that kind of community," Marijose said.

Yet the odds were against her attending Baylor. Lacking any funds for college, Marijose felt her options for an undergraduate education were extremely limited. However, the John Graham Jones Endowed Scholarship opened the doors to Baylor - a blessing she attributes to God's plan being bigger than her own. Through the scholarship, she would become equipped to serve God and the world.

"Not only did the John Graham Jones Scholarship make my attendance and experience possible, it gave me a glimpse into the generosity of God the father," Marijose said.

Serving others

Today, Marijose serves as a missionary through the Fellowship of Catholic University Students, ministering to college students. The two-year commitment requires her to raise funds for her salary, but she is undaunted - again stepping out in faith and trusting in God's abundant provision, which has paved her way thus far.

Through her vocation, Marijose is leading by example and helping others to pursue their calling in service to the greater good.

"Imagine a world with doctors, politicians, entrepreneurs and other young professionals, looking at the world with the eyes of Christ and working in the world with the hands and feet of Christ," Marijose said. "Though education is important, there must also be a transformation of our own hearts that will lead us into being lifelong disciples out of love for God."