From Student to Pastor: A Story of God’s Call

My name is Braydon Hotchkiss, and I graduated from Trinity College of Florida in 2022 as valedictorian. While at Trinity, I pursued a double major in Bible and Theology, as well as a second major in Ministry with a concentration in Pastoral Ministry.

Since graduating, I’ve been serving as the pastor of First Baptist Church of Tarpon Springs, Florida. My time at Trinity truly prepared me for this role. The education I received here laid a strong foundation that I’ve been able to build upon in my ministry. In fact, I’m currently pursuing a master’s degree online through the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. However, I’ve found that much of what I am learning is simply reinforcing and confirming what I already gained at Trinity.

If you are considering a Bible college, I would encourage you to prioritize finding a school that is committed to teaching the truth and preparing students to preach the Word of God. It is crucial to choose a college that focuses on expositional preaching and teaches you how to open the Bible and communicate it effectively. Trinity College excelled in this area, and I feel it equipped me with the tools I need to stand firm in a world where sound theology is often lacking.

One thing that really stood out to me during my time at Trinity was the emphasis on pastoral ministry. The practical experience I gained through courses like pastoral methods and counseling was invaluable. These classes weren’t just theoretical; they included real-life scenarios that helped prepare me for the challenges of actual ministry. I truly believe that this practical training gave me the confidence and skills I needed to succeed in my role as a pastor.

Another major benefit of studying at Trinity was the relationships I formed with professors. Unlike larger schools where it’s easy to feel like just another student in a sea of faces, at Trinity, I was able to build personal relationships with my professors. I still keep in touch with many of them today, and they continue to support me in my ministry. Their mentorship has been one of the most valuable aspects of my education, and it’s something I believe sets Trinity apart from other institutions.

In short, I would highly recommend Trinity College to anyone pursuing a career in ministry. The solid theological training, practical ministry preparation, and strong relationships with professors make it a place that truly equips you for a life of service in God’s kingdom.

If you would like to help other students become successful in ministry like Braydon, you can partner with Trinity College of Florida to Forge a Future here.