Austin Arnold, GCA Class of 2013

What was your favorite thing about Grace Christian Academy?

This may seem cliché, but I would have to say the people. I am a firm believer that the outcome of your experience (positive/negative) is mostly driven by the individuals you surround yourself with as you delve into life’s moments. Fortunately, I was blessed to be able to attend GCA (thanks dad and mom!) where I would quickly meet people who come from very diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Describe one of your favorite teachers from GCA and how they impacted your life.

I would have to say, hands down, Dr. Peni Hirt. Growing up, I was fairly certain that I wanted to pursue a career in Finance. Taking AP Biology was not exactly necessary to achieve this goal as one can imagine. However, I was young, foolish, and forever grateful for Dr. Hirt’s class looking back on time well spent. Dr. Hirt’s class offered more than just expert advice on everything Biology, it provided a forum in which I could practice self-discipline, rebounding from failure, and effective communication. All things I still practice today.

Grace Christian Academy seeks to help students develop a Biblical worldview. How has this mission impacted your personal and professional life?

Professionally, GCA’s mission has taught me to effectively communicate a focused point of view on hard topics. Personally, as we grow, we are ultimately tasked with explaining to the world why we believe what we believe. Having the right tools makes it a lot less stressful and brings confidence.

How did Grace Christian Academy prepare you for life after graduation?

Life after graduation can be difficult if you have the wrong expectations. GCA, through all my coaches, teachers, administrators, and staff members, provided a clear (mental) checklist of things I needed to be working toward in order to accomplish the goals I set out for my life (setting goals! On the list!).

What did you do after graduation and what are you doing professionally?

After GCA, I went on to pursue a collegiate athletic career (football) and received my Bachelor of Science degree in Economics & Finance from Centre College in Danville, Kentucky. In 2017, I joined a financial consulting firm based in Lexington, KY called Commonwealth Economics. Here, I am responsible for conducting feasibility analyses, economic and fiscal impact studies, as well as examination of State and Federal level economic incentive programs. I am also working toward my FINRA/MSRB Series 50 Municipal Advisor designation.

Before joining Commonwealth Economics, I served the Centre College Athletic Administration where I assisted the implementation of a new financial database. Additionally, I have experience analyzing quantitative and financial data in my role as a Financial Counselor for 21st Mortgage Corporation.

Lastly, I would like to give a shout-out to my now Fiancée, Shannon Murray. She rocks!