Growth, Leadership and Finding My Purpose: My GCU College Experience

Discover how one student’s journey at GCU became a powerful story of leadership, personal growth and purpose-driven transformation. From campus involvement to career readiness, this inspiring experience highlights the impact of community and opportunity.

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Read time 4 minutes

Ana Wright

Published on Apr 23, 2025

Hi, I'm Ana Wright. I earned a degree in business administration at Grand Canyon University and graduated in 2025. Throughout my time at GCU, I was actively involved in various student leadership roles, serving as a PAC ambassador for the Honors College, vice president of event operations for Alpha Chi, community relations and member engagement coordinator for Delta Mu Delta, and vice president of the Project Management Club.

I have learned and experienced so much during my time here at GCU. As I reflect back, I can see that my journey was one of growth, discovery and transformation. Let’s learn more about my college experience and how I was shaped by the incredible community and opportunities at GCU.

Embracing Community and Opportunities

Attending GCU has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. When I first stepped onto campus, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I quickly realized that GCU offered more than a degree — it offered a community. The welcoming atmosphere, strong faith and values, and endless opportunities to grow personally and professionally helped shape my college experience in ways I never imagined.

As a business administration student, I found myself surrounded by professors and peers who genuinely cared about my success.

The classroom environment encouraged not just learning but also practical application, preparing me for the future. Furthermore, beyond academics, GCU provided me with countless opportunities for involvement. Joining student organizations and clubs and partaking in networking events all helped me expand my skill sets and connections. I learned that at GCU, growth happened outside the classroom just as much as inside it.

Another great opportunity was stepping into leadership roles. From my involvement in professional development programs and serving in student organizations like clubs, I found a passion for mentorship and leadership. These roles allowed me to refine my communication skills, develop confidence and learn how to lead with integrity. With each experience, I could feel a stronger sense of purpose forming, helping me understand how I wanted to serve others in my future career.

Hands-on Experiences That Shaped Me

My role as a part-time student employee at Grand Canyon Education, GCU’s service partner, gave me priceless hands-on experience in the workforce. Managing blog projects as a content specialist allowed me to refine my organizational, communication and project management skills while connecting and working with my coworkers and managers helped me be more involved in the community. The experience of working in a professional setting while balancing academics gave me a better understanding of what I wanted to do as a career. Working as a student employee helped me discover my passion for management and leadership.

Another impactful moment was my induction into three honor societies: the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Alpha Chi and Delta Mu Delta. The induction ceremony was an unforgettable experience, surrounded by my peers, mentors and team members who had supported me along the way. The energy in the room was thrilling and as soon as I stood on stage, I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and belonging. These societies represented much more than just academic achievement; they also represented the dedication and hard work it took to get there. Being part of an inspiring community reinforced my drive to excel and serve others.

Another transformational moment that helped shape me was my leadership experience as a PAC ambassador. In this student leadership role, I had the opportunity to guide and mentor students individually and in teams, helping them develop professionally and personally. Meeting with participants one-on-one, encouraging them and watching them grow was an incredibly fulfilling experience. I remember the first day of PAC, looking at it through the eyes of an ambassador and seeing all the new participants eager to learn more and challenge themselves. It reminded me of how I was when I first attended PAC as a participant. The growth and development I experienced within this program helped me develop my skills, professionalism and leadership abilities while also building confidence in myself.

Looking Back at My College Experience

One of the most significant aspects of my GCU journey was the deepening of my faith. The university’s commitment to integrating faith and values into every aspect of the college experience truly helped me to grow spiritually. Whether through faith-based discussions in the classroom, joining Life Groups or receiving encouragement from my peers and mentors, it all helped me in developing a stronger sense of purpose and direction for my life. GCU showed me that success isn’t just about career achievements and academic accolades — it’s about making a meaningful impact and serving others.

Stepping Forward

My college experience at GCU was a journey full of growth and leadership while finding my purpose. By stepping outside my comfort zone and embracing the challenge, I got to serve in leadership roles, strengthen my faith and transform myself from within. I’m so grateful for all the people I’ve met, worked with and learned from, for each person helped me on my journey.

Every moment and experience at GCU contributed to shaping the person I have become. I am thankful for the supportive community, the enriching academic and leadership opportunities and the guidance that prepared me for the next chapter of my life.

Grow and Find Purpose at GCU

See how Ana found her path at GCU — and imagine where your journey could take you.

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Ana Wright

Business and Honors Student

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Approved and verified accurate by the assistant vice president of GCU Marketing on April 8, 2025.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.