For Elizabeth Coleman, a 2015 computer science and math graduate, Southwest Baptist
University represents where she learned the depths of God’s faithfulness and provision,
from preparing to come to SBU to graduating with a job already secured.
“I think the biggest lesson I learned at SBU is how much the Lord provides,” said Elizabeth. “I see how He directed my steps to go to SBU and provided financially for me to go there.”
Once she arrived at SBU, Elizabeth witnessed God’s provision again in the way He provided relationships, activities, and learning opportunities. From leading Welcome Week groups to an on-campus job in the IT department to tutoring opportunities, Elizabeth is grateful for what she learned through these God-given experiences.
“All of these opportunities gave me unique experiences interacting with others,” recalled Elizabeth. “I have worked at my job a little over a year, and I am already mentoring a software development intern. I can see how my tutoring and instructing positions helped prepare me for this job responsibility.”
God also provided the academic preparation Elizabeth needed to pursue her career goals. Looking back, she realizes the advantage of her SBU education in the superior preparation she received.
“SBU prepared me for my job by giving me the base knowledge I needed to become a software developer,” Elizabeth said, “and I was taught how to learn things I don’t know; we’re never done learning in the field of technology.”
The Lord also faithfully provided the faculty expertise and networking connections that helped Elizabeth discover her calling and secure internship and job opportunities.
“The faculty are a huge reason I even majored in computer science and math because they believed I could do it even when I was doubting myself and they were always willing to help me,” said Elizabeth. “The faculty have great connections with companies, which helped me secure my first internship. That internship gave me the confidence and experience I needed at my first job out of college, which I was connected to through one of my professors.”
Elizabeth now works as a software developer for O’Reilly Auto Parts, a job offered to her before she graduated. She continues to draw on what she learned about God and herself at SBU as she demonstrates servant leadership in her job and community.
“God revealed His faithfulness again when I had a job offer before my last semester at SBU. I learned that God has my back and is right there with me as I follow the path He has before me.”