From Calling to Completion: How One Student Earned a Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree at Grace

For many students, discerning a call to ministry is just the beginning. Figuring out how to prepare well academically, spiritually, and practically can feel overwhelming, especially when time and money make an impact on your theological training decision.

For Reagan Means, Grace College and Grace Theological Seminary became the place where her calling was refined and developed. Through theological education, she gained the skills and knowledge to become an effective ministry leader. In just 3.5 years, she earned her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree combined, completing her seminary education with focus and determination.

A Call to Ministry

Means grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, about six hours from Grace. Though she had picked up a Bible only 3 years earlier, she had a growing sense that God was calling her to attend seminary and serve in ministry. This became clear to her while serving in youth ministry at her home church. 

Means first learned about Grace College and Theological Seminary at a college fair. Out of all the seminary schools, Grace stood out because it allowed her to finish college efficiently, enroll in an affordable program, and get the most value from her education.

“I knew I wanted to get through school faster,” she shared. “And I wanted an advantage when it came to future ministry opportunities.”

Grace met all her needs and exceeded all her expectations. She began her undergerad courses in August 2022 and began her courses in Grace Theological Seminary’s accelerated master’s program in 2023. This program effectively allows students to earn their bachelor’s degree and master’s degree at the same time.

Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree with Support

At first, the accelerated program felt intimidating.

“I went to an academically rigorous high school, but I had never experienced a college workload,” said Means. 

While the academic expectations were higher, the professors’ immediate support stood out.

“I found that the professors were very kind and patient with me. They knew I was pursuing both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees, so they were very understanding,” said Means.

To add to the rigorous workload, Means also faced health complications. These complications were met with deep support from professors and faculty mentors. 

Brent Mencarelli, the director & assistant professor of Youth and Family Ministries, offered guidance and encouragement when Means needed it the most. Dr. Tiberius Rata, the associate dean for the School of Ministry Studies & professor of Old Testament Studies, served as both Means’ professor and faculty mentor. He was someone who took the time to know what she was going through and adapted his teaching to support her in any way possible.

“They cared about me as a person and a student,” said Means. 

Their investment in her well-being and growth made a big difference as she navigated the challenges of an accelerated seminary program.

A Strong Foundation

In just 3.5 years, Means earned a Bachelor of Arts in Youth and Family Ministry, followed by a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry with a concentration in Women’s Leadership through Grace Theological Seminary.

One of the biggest lessons she learned at Grace was humility.

“I realized I wasn’t as smart as I thought I was, and that was a good thing!” Means said. “Every topic and course is built on the same foundation.”

Grace’s curriculum emphasized foundational biblical and theological truths, shaping not just what Means knew but how she approached ministry. Everything she learned traced back to Scripture!

Spiritually, she grew more confident, opening the Bible, using biblical resources effectively, and developing consistent prayer rhythms and Scripture-reading practices. Before seminary, discipline in these areas hadn’t been part of her daily life, but her rich theological education helped her establish patterns that continue to shape her walk with the Lord.

Hands-On Ministry Experience

As part of her educational journey, Means was encouraged to gain hands-on ministry experience. Through internships at Orchard Hill Church in western Pennsylvania, she helped with the student, children’s, and women’s ministries.

From helping lead Kidsfest, a VBS run by the church, to serving alongside the women’s director, each experience affirmed and encouraged Means as she pursued her calling.

“These experiences helped me to realize how much I loved working with girls, helping them see that you can love the Lord and glorify Him in everything you do,” Means said.

Looking Ahead

Recently graduating with both her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in December 2025, Means desires to continue serving in women’s ministry in ways that support the Church as a whole. 

When asked what she would say to a student considering Grace’s accelerated program, her answer was simple: “Do it.”

Being at Grace opened doors she didn’t expect, deepened her understanding of Scripture, and connected her with professors who genuinely care about her personal, spiritual, and academic success.

“The blended program helped me to get the level of education that I wanted quickly and affordably.”

Interested in pursuing your bachelor’s degree and master’s degree combined? Explore Grace Theological Seminary’s accelerated master’s program today!

A Strong Foundation

In just 3.5 years, Means earned a Bachelor of Arts in Youth and Family Ministry, followed by a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry with a concentration in Women’s Leadership through Grace Theological Seminary.

One of the biggest lessons she learned at Grace was humility.

“I realized I wasn’t as smart as I thought I was, and that was a good thing!” Means said. “Every topic and course is built on the same foundation.”

Grace’s curriculum emphasized foundational biblical and theological truths, shaping not just what Means knew but how she approached ministry. Everything she learned traced back to Scripture!

Spiritually, she grew more confident, opening the Bible, using biblical resources effectively, and developing consistent prayer rhythms and Scripture-reading practices. Before seminary, discipline in these areas hadn’t been part of her daily life, but her rich theological education helped her establish patterns that continue to shape her walk with the Lord.

Hands-On Ministry Experience

As part of her educational journey, Means was encouraged to gain hands-on ministry experience. Through internships at Orchard Hill Church in western Pennsylvania, she helped with the student, children’s, and women’s ministries.

From helping lead Kidsfest, a VBS run by the church, to serving alongside the women’s director, each experience affirmed and encouraged Means as she pursued her calling.

“These experiences helped me to realize how much I loved working with girls, helping them see that you can love the Lord and glorify Him in everything you do,” Means said.

Looking Ahead

Recently graduating with both her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in December 2025, Means desires to continue serving in women’s ministry in ways that support the Church as a whole. 

When asked what she would say to a student considering Grace’s accelerated program, her answer was simple: “Do it.”

Being at Grace opened doors she didn’t expect, deepened her understanding of Scripture, and connected her with professors who genuinely care about her personal, spiritual, and academic success.

“The blended program helped me to get the level of education that I wanted quickly and affordably.”

Interested in pursuing your bachelor’s degree and master’s degree combined? Explore Grace Theological Seminary’s accelerated master’s program today!