A change in plans

Hello, 
My name is Janelle Fenton. I’m 20 years old and I recently graduated from Hope International University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business and Management (May 2010). Most of you reading this probably know a bit about me, but for those who don’t… I come from a big family consisting of my dad (Marty), mom (Sheryl), older brother (Matt), Matt’s wife (Lydia), younger brothers (John and Robert), younger sister (Nicole), and three adorable nieces (Esther, Norah, and Ava). 
I love music, art, coffee, and fashion. Most importantly, I am deeply in love with Jesus Christ who I believe has recently led me to make some changes in my near future.

Throughout the past year I have struggled to determine the next step in my life after college. I’ve prayed about it, and sought advice from mentors, but it seemed as though I wasn’t hearing anything. After a while, the opportunity to enroll in grad school and continue on in my ministry position at Hope as a Resident Assistant arose, thinking that this was my direction for the next year, I took the opportunity and began applying for grad school. While this seemed to be a great idea, I had a change in plans and in heart. I went on a mission trip to work in Brooklyn, New York. Here I worked with several different organizations including a senior center, a home for mentally disabled adults, and a halfway house for young adults. It was here that I began to realize my love and compassion for these people and urban ministry.

In the weeks following this trip, I began to seriously pray about this change in heart. I sought advice and took time to look into ministry opportunities. It was during this time that I was introduced to Mission Year. After corresponding with several Mission Year Alumni, I was quickly able to see that this is where I need to be for the next year. And so, I signed up for Mission Year and am looking forward to the opportunity to work in the inner-city, meet new people, experience a new culture, and build solid relationships with my surrounding community. Most of all, I am excited to share the love of Christ through my actions and words alongside my team members. I know that it will be tough at first, and I know that I will be challenged in every way, but I also know that God will see my efforts for his glory and make the most of them to further His Kingdom.