Olivet Nazarene University is honoring its transfer students this October during National Transfer Student Week, a time to recognize those who have joined the Olivet family after starting their college journeys elsewhere. Organized by the National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students, this annual event acknowledges the unique paths that transfer students take and the dedication they bring to their educational pursuits.
Each year, Olivet shines a spotlight on the stories of students who felt called to transfer, choosing to continue their education in an environment that supports both their academic and spiritual growth. This year, we are proud to share the testimonies of two such students, Vince Martinez and Morgan Gulley, whose journeys reflect the transformative experience Olivet provides.
Vince Martinez: Finding a Spiritual Home
Vince began his college career at North Central College in Naperville, Illinois. Though he appreciated his time there, something essential was missing. “I was an undecided freshman on the baseball team, and I felt the Lord calling me to deepen my relationship with Him,” Vince recalls. “With North Central being a secular college, I wasn’t provided with that opportunity.”
As Vince sought a place where he could nurture his faith, his girlfriend, an Olivet student, raved about the community, the professors who spoke openly about God, and the enriching experience of chapel. “The one thing that really stuck out to her,” Vince says, “was the university’s slogan, ‘We Believe. You Belong Here.’” That sense of belonging, coupled with Olivet’s faith-centered education, sparked Vince’s interest.
Upon learning that Olivet offered a Physical Education program—something his college didn’t provide—Vince saw his path more clearly. “I felt God leading me to a future in education,” he explains. The transfer process brought him to Olivet, where he joined the baseball team and found a supportive spiritual community. “Having access to chapel twice a week, on top of professors encouraging their students to trust in the Lord, has been invaluable.”
Morgan Gulley: A Journey of Faith and Financial Aid
Morgan’s search for a college to transfer to was marked by challenges and closed doors, leaving her uncertain about her future. “I began to worry that I’d never be able to transfer into a four-year school,” Morgan reflects. She’d nearly resigned herself to a school she didn’t feel drawn to and wasn’t sure she could afford. Then, at her mother’s urging, she visited Olivet one more time, rekindling a sense of belonging she’d felt during an earlier visit.
The financial aspect loomed large, but Morgan’s experience at Olivet’s Financial Aid Office became a defining moment. “Stepping into the financial aid office was nerve-wracking, but I’ll never forget what my advisor told me: ‘We see how hard you have worked, and we will give you everything we can.’” With that support, Morgan’s dream became feasible.
Today, Morgan thrives at Olivet as a resident assistant and student ambassador. She feels that God called her to Olivet and is deeply grateful for the support she’s received along the way. “I genuinely believe God called me here, and I am forever grateful to Olivet for giving me the opportunity to pursue my calling in the most authentic way possible,” Morgan says.
To learn more about transferring to Olivet Nazarene University, contact the Office of Admissions 800-648-1463 or click here to schedule a campus visit.
