For a lot of Columbia International University students, to be an MK means a missionary kid, some of whom may call more than one place on earth “home.” Kyra Ledwell is a different kind of MK — a military kid who has lived in a number of states across the U.S.A. 

“For me Detroit, Michigan is my first home, it’s where my heart is,” Ledwell said adding that the Columbia area is her second home. “A major part of my village is here.”

And that village includes several CIU professors and staff members who have made an impact on her life.

“They saw much potential in me, poured into me, and have gotten me out of my shell to serve alongside them and teach me what it truly means to be kingdom minded,” said Ledwell, who earned her undergraduate degree in Human Services and is currently a graduate student in the Clinical Counseling program. “They have constantly given me sound godly advice and that has helped me grow so much spiritually.”

More specifically, Ledwell says her understanding of community within the body of Christ has been strengthened during her time at CIU.

“For me, it was life changing seeing the functions and duties being carried out in real time among believers,” Ledwell said. “Also learning how to balance quiet time with the Lord has been strengthened. We can get so caught up with the many demands of life … God strengthened me with patience, to pause and spend more time in His presence.”

Once Ledwell graduates with her Clinical Counseling degree, she plans to pursue licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor, serving the Columbia area.

“I also want to get more involved within the community through advocacy, specifically within the African American community and other marginalized groups to bring forth both spiritual growth and mental health awareness,” Ledwell added.

A spring 2023 student satisfaction survey identified the factor most important to CIU students and CIU’s top strength as “My relationship with God has been strengthened.”  

CIU is celebrating 100 years of its mission to “educate people from a biblical worldview to impact the nations with the message of Christ.” The university consistently ranks among the Top Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report, as well as a Best Value Regional University in the South. Apply now or request information on enrollment by contacting Admissions at (803) 807-5024 or admissions@ciu.edu.