College Bound - Where Passion Meets Patience

Choosing a college can be daunting. There are so many factors to consider. Do they have the program I want? Will I “fit in” with the culture? Can I afford it financially? Is it close enough (or far away!) from my home community? Sometimes the journey toward higher education is a winding road with a variety of detours, unexpected turns, or obstacles. This is Senior Emilie Reed’s story.

When looking at life after high school, Emilie’s passion for music and theater was a driving force. She has performed in a variety of choirs at Salem Academy (2013-2019), acted in multiple Salem Academy stage performances (2012-2019), expanded her theater roles to include S.K.I.T. (Salem Keizer Inspirational Teen Theater) productions (2015-2019), and has received multiple awards at Salem Academy, S.K.I.T, and the A.C.S.I. Choral Festival. The “what” to study was clear – now came the where!

After setting aside the “comfortable” choice to stay close to home for college, Emilie decided to be bold and see what God might have for her beyond Salem, OR.  This would open up a variety of options that the Guidance Office at Salem Academy could pursue while taking into consideration Emilie’s “ideal” campus which would include: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater (including dance), Christian-based, and financially possible. Pretty tall order!

Over a weekend, Shelly Warde (SA Guidance Office Assistant) began her search. She would uncover two possible schools – only one of which seemed a really good option. That following Monday, she shared with Emilie that Abilene Christian University seemed like a perfect fit! Emilie was shocked to hear Abilene mentioned as she had done her own research and discovered them as well. In addition, she had a separate conversation with her SA Choir Director, Kent Wilson, who - without prompting - suggested Emilie check out Abilene.

Emilie ultimately decided to pursue two options: Grand Canyon University and Abilene Christian University. After scholarship offers, the out-of-pocket costs would differ greatly between the two: Grand Canyon ($11,000 – safe back-up) and Abilene ($21,000 – dream choice!). They would now need to trust God to minimize that gap.

Emilie flew down to Texas, toured Abilene’s campus, and auditioned for their Musical Theatre Program. This would determine whether she would even be accepted into the program. Competition was high with only 12 students accepted each year - many of the applicants were returning Abilene students.

After a long wait, the call came. She was not accepted into the Musical Theatre program. However, they encouraged her to re-audition in the fall. Though crushed to hear this “no” or even “wait”, there was still hope. Because of her strong vocals they encouraged her to apply for the regular Music Program. An application for the Music Program was completed and Emilie was accepted! No additional funds, but she was one step closer down the road for her course of study.

Later, while Salem Academy participated in the A.C.S.I. Regional Music Festival, Emilie was honored and asked to give a command performance at the final concert. This was another great item to list and update her resume. Emilie’s mom happened to video the performance and sent it in along to Abilene’s Music Department along with the updated resume. Within 24 hours Emilie received an email. They had offered an additional $7,000 scholarship based on her performance!

God’s plan is amazing!  Delaying entry to the Fine Arts program opened the door for her to receive that extra scholarship money needed to make it possible for her to attend Abilene.  God knew that the prior denial would be hard, but He ALWAYS knows best. Emilie will begin her dream school in the fall as a double major in both Vocal Performance and Music Education with a minor in theatre.

“I have learned through this long experience that even when God closes a door He will open another one! It may not be the one that you want, but it will be better in the long run. I’m so thankful for all of the amazing mentors that God has placed in my life who helped me to see that!”

Your Salem Academy family is excited to see what God has planned for you next, Emilie!