I decided to attend Urbana18 because I have considered becoming an international missionary at multiple times in my life. Scholarships for Urbana made it possible for me to attend, and I am thankful that I went.
This was my first Urbana experience and it was admittedly a bit overwhelming at first. I had heard such good things that I put unrealistic expectations on the conference and on my own experience. Once I started to relax and create the schedule that worked best for me, God began to work.
After attending many sessions that were wonderful, but filled with people (mostly undergraduates), I needed a break and headed to the graduate student lounge. It was nice to spend some time with people on the same page in life as me. The lounge gave me the mental break and physical sustenance I needed at Urbana. Just like in life, taking time to smell the roses (or more importantly, the coffee) and have a snack makes a big difference.
After leaving the lounge, a few of us headed to the exhibit hall to speak to some mission organizations. With a clear mind and open heart, God began to confirm my calling in little ways. Talking with various organizations and missionaries gave me the opportunity to explore how my education in public health could be used overseas and allowed me to ask all my questions. I also attended a session where one woman addressed every fear I had about going into missions, which reminded me to continue to trust God in all things.
Urbana was not what I expected at first but was a wonderful experience when I gave God the room to work. I am not quite ready to sign on with a mission organization yet, but instead plan to start paying off student loans and live with a focus on missions here in the U.S. first. Urbana reminded me to let the Lord lead my paths and I’m trusting Him with my future, wherever He may lead.
