For Michael Yarber, discovering Walsh University came through the Newman Guide, a resource that highlights colleges recommended by the Cardinal Newman Society for their commitment to Catholic identity. “I realized early on in my college search that I wanted to go to a Catholic school,” he said. “Ultimately, I chose Walsh because it was a good fit spiritually, academically, athletically, and financially.”
From the start, Walsh has provided an environment where Michael’s values and faith could grow. “The University’s focus on servant leadership and community helped me see the importance of using my strengths to help others,” he explained. Spending time in class, on the field, and around campus with faculty, peers, and Campus Ministry leaders has shaped his spiritual identity and helped him understand who he is and what he wants to contribute to the world.
During his freshman year, Michael experienced spiritual hardship, and found support through Campus Ministry and mentoring from the university chaplain. “Meeting other young men who are aiming for the same goal as me, Heaven, has helped me grow in virtue and holiness,” he said. He also draws inspiration from University President Tim Collins, whose daily witness of prayer and dedication to forming students into productive, holy adults has left a lasting impression. “Seeing him at daily Mass reminds me that as busy as I am, I can always find time for God. As busy as he is, it’s evident that he remains a prayerful man, and that to me is incredible,” Michael said. This foundation has strengthened his faith and guided his personal and professional development, reminding him that holiness isn’t limited to religious vocations, it’s about positively impacting the world around you.
Academically, Michael is pursuing a biology major with a pre-med concentration, driven by a lifelong interest in the human body and the science of healing. Walsh has supported him with strong science professors, hands-on opportunities, and a location that offers abundant work and shadowing experiences nearby. “Walsh has opportunities for me athletically, which supports my mental and physical health as well as supports my resume. The friends, spiritual directors, and faculty I’ve met have helped me find my faith identity so that I can be healthier, be holier, and positively contribute to society,” he said.
Outside the classroom, Michael’s involvement includes NCAA Baseball, serving as a resident assistant, science and pre-healthcare clubs, Cavs for Life, intramural sports, Campus Ministry, and tutoring. Baseball has been especially transformative. “Playing college baseball has been incredibly challenging but also incredibly rewarding for me, and I’ve seen myself grow not only as a baseball player, but also as a person,” he said.
Looking ahead, Michael plans to attend medical school and become an orthopedic surgeon, seeing medicine as both a vocation and a ministry. “I want to succeed in my career because I think medicine is a ministry, and in a field where you encounter people in states of vulnerability, I want to be a light in a world that is plagued by darkness. I want to be the most loving, caring, and skilled physician so that I can effectively heal my patients,” he explained.
