Kristen McKinney outside her dorm room in Gardner Hall. (Photo by Rachel Crossnoe)

Kristen McKinney, an accounting major from Garland, is one of the many freshmen who moved onto campus Tuesday morning.

She heard about ACU through her father who is an alumnus. Upon visiting ACU, McKinney was interested in the many opportunities the school provides.

“I’m looking forward to opportunities that are available to ACU students and different student groups,” McKinney said.

McKinney puts a lot of dedication and work into her studies; however, she also enjoys socializing and spending time with friends. One of McKinney’s biggest areas of interest is missions. Although she chose to be an accounting major, she wants to use her education for ministry.

“I feel called to work with a ministry, and some areas I noticed I am gifted in is the business of it all,” McKinney said. “I’m interested in entrepreneurship with ministry. So, right now accounting is a good base for me to kind of figure out how business will work with ministry.”

McKinney, like most new college students, is still trying to figure out where life and her degree will lead. She hopes to end up working with a ministry or non-profit organization but is willing to follow wherever God leads her.

McKinney has three younger siblings and, as the oldest, she is the first to enter college. When asked how she felt starting college, McKinney said she was anxious. 

“[I have] a little bit of nerves just because I don’t necessarily know what to expect,” McKinney said. “But, I’m really excited to start this new journey and season of life.”

Abilene is a far drive from McKinney’s hometown of Garland, a suburb of Dallas. McKinney said in Abilene it is much faster to get from one side of town to the other. When asked about home, McKinney said she will miss her family, particularly her siblings.

McKinney has taken up residence in Gardner Hall so be sure to stop by and say hello as you get acquainted, or reacquainted, with ACU.