Emma's Story

Last year when I found out I had to transfer from UK to EKU, I was honestly crushed. Even though Richmond was just thirty minutes away, it felt like I was leaving everything I had ever known. I didn’t want to start over. I didn’t want to leave the familiar. And stepping out of my comfort zone is never something I jump at.

But God.

Looking back now, I can see so clearly that the move I dreaded was the very thing He was using to grow me. At EKU, I learned independence in a way I had always struggled with before. I met people I never would have crossed paths with otherwise—friends I know will be in my life forever. At the time, I couldn’t see it. I was nervous, scared, and constantly asking God, “Why here? Why now?”

But slowly, He started to show me.

I think the biggest thing He taught me through that season was how to actually trust Him. To lay down my worries, my anxiety, my desperate need to control what’s next—and just believe that His plan really is better.

If you had told me a year ago that some of my best friends and even my future bridesmaids would come out of this move, I would’ve laughed. But it’s true. I had prayed for real, genuine friendships for so long, and God was listening the whole time. He was just waiting for the right moment to answer.

That’s what I carry with me now: God’s timing is never late, His plans are never off-track, and even when I can’t see it, He is leading me exactly where I need to be.

More About Emma

Hi, I’m Emma, and I just wanted to share a little glimpse into where I am right now and what God’s been teaching me lately! Life looks a lot different than it did a year or two ago, but that’s the beauty of walking with Him. Every season, every change, and every challenge has been part of something bigger that He’s been writing all along.

I’m currently a senior at Eastern Kentucky University in the Occupational Therapy program! Getting here wasn’t exactly the straight path I expected — I actually transferred from UK to pursue this degree. That change came with a lot of uncertainty, new faces, and a completely different environment. But through all of it, God has shown up in ways I couldn’t have imagined. He’s surrounded me with community, friendships, and people who truly encourage me to grow in my faith and chase after Him daily.

Before coming to EKU, I wasn’t always surrounded by people who took their faith seriously or who reminded me of the importance of walking closely with the Lord. That all changed when I transferred. Now more than ever, I’ve wanted to deepen my relationship with Him — not because life is perfect, but because He’s been so faithful, even when I couldn’t see the light at the end of the tunnel. I’m learning that God doesn’t love us for our perfection; He loves us for our hearts.

One verse that’s been especially meaningful to me lately is Proverbs 19:21:

“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”

If there’s one thing God has been working on in me, it’s trust. I’m a planner by nature — I like to know what’s coming next, how it’s going to work out, and when. But this verse reminds me that even when my plans fall apart or take an unexpected turn, His purpose is steady and good. I may not always understand the “why,” but I can trust the One who does.

So if you’re in a season of transition, change, or uncertainty, I hope my story reminds you of this: you don’t have to have it all figured out. God’s already gone before you. He has a purpose for your steps, and He’s faithful to walk with you every single one of them.

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