Saint Louis University School for Professional Studies Student
Ann Kelly says you never know where life is going to take you.
Currently pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Organizational Behavior at Saint Louis University’s School for Professional Studies, Kelly will be the first in her family to graduate with a traditional college degree, but her path to becoming a Billiken wasn’t direct.
A Winding Path to a Calling
After completing some coursework in business and criminology and criminal justice following high school, Kelly ultimately decided to pursue a career in health care. First, she became a dental assistant and then manager of a dental practice for 12 years. During that time, she volunteered for the Annunciation Catholic Church Parish School of Religion (PSR) ministry program and, in 2018, became its part-time coordinator.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, however, Kelly said she began to question what God was calling her to do. She began working full time for the Archdiocese of Saint Louis and later earned her religious education certification. She began teaching at Holy Cross Academy and directing the PSR ministry program at Annunciation Catholic Church.
Passionate about her faith, she earned an associate's degree in theology from Franciscan University. Kelly felt drawn to SLU to continue her education — both for its strong academics and the Jesuit tradition of service. But finances, particularly scholarships, also played a role.
Putting SLU Within Reach
Married with a daughter who is also in college, Kelly said the financial support she received from Saint Louis University took some stress out of attending college as a working adult.
“It's given me an opportunity to make a whole life change, really,” she said. “It makes you want to do well, not only for yourself but also for those who are supporting you. And the financial support has really made that easier because the sooner you figure out that part of it, the sooner you can move on to doing that academic work.”
Before seeing a whole financial aid package, it’s natural to look at the cost of higher education and wonder if it is doable, she said. Her experience at SLU’s School of Professional Studies, however, has been exceptional, she added, with the financial aid office and the advisors working with her, giving her a plan of her classes and breaking the cost down by semester.
Putting Faith First
In addition to relieving her financial stress, Kelly said being recognized with scholarships has been an empowering and motivating honor, both in terms of her academic performance and fueling her own desire to give back.
It has also affirmed for her that Saint Louis University is the right choice.
“Finances are important, but for me, number one is always putting my faith first and relying on the Holy Spirit,” she said. “I know that if I'm doing that and I'm following that path, the numbers will come. You know, if it's really where you're supposed to be, it will work out.”
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