A student’s dilemma: choosing between pre-med and ministry
A student changes his vocation.
by Aidan Olson
Caleb Meeker, a senior at Bethel University, is facing a difficult decision. He has been studying biology and preparing for medical school since he enrolled in 2020. However, he has also been feeling a strong call from God to pursue ministry as his vocation. Meeker is not sure what to do or how to balance his academic and spiritual interests.
Meeker wants to use his skills to help others. He worked hard in high school and got accepted into Bethel University, a Christian liberal arts college in Minnesota. He chose biology as his major and pre-med as his track. He hoped to apply to medical schools after graduation and become a physician.
“I have such a deep passion for ministry, especially when related to Christianity.”–Caleb Meeker, Bethel senior
However, Meeker also has a passion for ministry. He grew up in a Christian family and attended church regularly. He was involved in various ministries, such as youth groups, worship teams, and outreach. He felt a connection with God and a desire to serve Him. As he says, “I have such a deep passion for ministry, especially when related to Christianity.” He always had a voice in the back of his mind telling him to dedicate his life to ministry, but he never took it seriously. He thought that he could serve God through medicine and that ministry was not his calling.
That changed in the last couple of months. Meeker started to feel a stronger and clearer call from God to switch to ministry. He was restless and dissatisfied with his pre-med studies. He feels drawn to theology and biblical studies. He relates to the burden of the lost and the needy. He experiences peace and joy when he thinks about ministry. He prayed and sought counsel from his friends, family, and mentors. He realized that God was leading him to a different path than he had planned.
“He’s able to relate information in a way that makes sense which is great for becoming a pastor.”
Meeker may be applying to seminary after graduation. He is interested in becoming a pastor, a missionary, or a chaplain. He believes that this is what God wants him to do and that he will be happier and more fulfilled in ministry. He is worried about the challenges and sacrifices of ministry. He is worried about the uncertainty and instability of his future. He is not sure if he is ready and qualified for ministry.
One of his suitemates and great friends Ashton, said, “he’s[Caleb] able to relate information in a way that makes sense.” Many of his other friends believe similar things about Caleb. He is asking God for guidance and wisdom. He is talking to his professors, advisors, friends, and his fiancée. “As he’s[Caleb] gotten with his fiancée, he’s gotten really close to God… Her major is related to it[ministry].” He is researching and exploring different options. He is weighing the pros and cons of each choice.
Caleb is hoping to find clarity and confirmation soon. He trusts that God has a good plan for his life and will reveal it to him in His time.
About Caleb:
Caleb Meeker is a senior biology student at Bethel University. He is from Northfield, Minnesota. He was a pre-med student but now he is switching his vocation to ministry. Caleb works in entertainment as a dunker for the Minnesota Timberwolves dunk team. He loves playing broomball and basketball. He is engaged to Maddie Kurth who also studies at Bethel University.
