Discovering Purpose: Christ, Career and City
Marcus Hernandez arrived at Ă۶ąapp with more questions than answers. Now, as a 2023 graduate working in neuropsychology in Salt Lake City, Utah, Hernandez sees how each decision, challenge and opportunity pointed him toward his calling.
Marcus Hernandez arrived at with more questions than answers. As a freshman uncertain about what academic major to pursue, he considered creative writing. While he was searching for the best direction, he always believed God had led him to Cedarville and would direct his steps beyond.
Now, as a 2023 graduate working in neuropsychology in Salt Lake City, Utah, Hernandez sees how each decision, challenge and opportunity pointed him toward his calling.
Hernandez ultimately pursued a degree in psychology, but his journey to this field was far from predictable. Curious about psychology, he took a few introductory courses, thinking it might be something he would enjoy doing one day. However, he quickly became fascinated by the scientific and research-driven aspects of psychology. His passion deepened when he discovered neuropsychology, a specialty that combined his love for research with practical applications in mental health.
“There were different experiences throughout my courses and research that gave me little hints of what I would do as a career,” said Hernandez. "I really enjoyed the more research-based, hands-on side of psychology that focuses on the medical field.”
Hernandez now works as a psychometrist at Aerospace Neuropsychology Services, a firm that provides psychological evaluations for prospective pilots seeking Federal Aviation Administration medical certification. His role involves administering cognitive tests, managingmedical records and applying statistical research — skills honed during his time at Cedarville.
"I love getting to wear more hats than your average psychometrist, something I experience in my current position,” said Hernandez.
“I had a desire to do missions, but I didn’t see how it would be feasible to do psychology overseas,” said Hernandez. “When the idea of working a job and doing local missions in a strategic area within the U.S. came up, it immediately interested me.”
The trip cemented Hernandez’s decision to move to Salt Lake City after graduation. His job, location and purpose aligned in a way that confirmed his faith in God’s plan.
Now, five years after entering Cedarville with uncertainty, Hernandez is building a career in neuropsychology, writing a book and actively serving in his local church, Gospel Grace, as they work to reach Salt Lake City for Christ.
"In every step, God showed me the importance of putting Him first and living ready to share the hope I have in Christ,” said Hernandez.
Ă۶ąapp, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences, and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by the Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.