Ms. Kayla Cradit (’15) came to the Hill and earned a Bachelor’s in Business Administration during her time. She also holds a Master of Theology with a concentration in Cross-Cultural Missions from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Currently, Kayla serves as the Girls Student Minister at Houston’s First Baptist Church.
In my current role, I walk alongside middle and high school students as they navigate the formative years of their lives. I lead Bible studies, mentor girls, and create opportunities for them to grow in their faith. I love seeing the students develop a deeper understanding of God’s Word. Each day, I’m reminded of the importance of investing in the next generation, and it’s a joy to see God working in and through their lives. The investment of both my immediate and extended family has been one of the greatest blessings in my life. Their unwavering support—whether through prayer, encouragement, guidance, or practical help—has given me the confidence to pursue my goals and stay grounded in my values. My family has helped shape who I am today. I am extremely grateful for a family that has always been there for me.
I chose to attend East Texas Baptist University because it allowed me to continue playing the sport I love—soccer—while also pursuing my education. Soccer had been a central part of my life for years, shaping my discipline, teamwork, and competitive spirit, so finding a school where I could keep competing at a higher level was important to me. It’s hard to single out just a few faculty and staff members who made an impact on my life at ETBU because so many played a role in shaping my college experience. The admissions office, where I had the privilege of working, was filled with incredible people who supported me, encouraged my growth, and made every day enjoyable. Their mentorship and kindness left a lasting impression on me. I’m also deeply thankful for the business school staff, whose dedication to teaching and genuine care for their students made a profound impact on me. Together, these groups not only invested in my education but also in me as a person, and their influence still inspires me today.
I’m grateful for my time at East Texas Baptist University because it gave me friendships that have lasted well beyond graduation. Many of the people I met there—whether through soccer, classes, or campus ministries—are still some of my closest friends today. We’ve celebrated milestones together and stayed connected despite many of us living in different places. Those years at ETBU built a foundation of shared experiences that are a reminder to me how special and lasting college friendships can be.
My time on the Hill prepared me for many aspects of life beyond college, especially when it came to balancing multiple responsibilities. Managing a full academic course load while competing in soccer and working in the admissions office taught me the importance of time management, discipline, and organization. I learned how to prioritize tasks, stay focused under pressure, and adapt quickly when plans changed—all skills that have been invaluable in my professional and personal life. The demands of balancing early morning practices, travel for games, late-night study sessions, and work commitments also taught me perseverance and the value of hard work. Beyond the practical skills, those years instilled in me a strong work ethic, resilience, and the ability to remain committed to my goals even when the schedule felt overwhelming. The Hill was more than just a place of learning; it was where I developed the habits and mindset that continue to help me thrive in every season of life.
If I had five minutes with ETBU students today, I would encourage them to take advantage of every single moment—because their time on the Hill will go by faster than they realize. I’d tell them to seek out mentors who can guide, challenge, and encourage them, both in their studies and in their walk with Christ. Surround yourself with people who inspire you to grow, and don’t shy away from opportunities that push you out of your comfort zone. This season of life is a time to learn more about yourself, strengthen your faith, and prepare for the life God is calling you to live. Make the most of it.