Miss Norah Hager is YTI’s newest Yellowstone Fellow. Hailing from Edmond, Okla, she is currently in her first year of pre-med studies at the University of Tulsa. She was 2023 National Merit Finalist and part of a biomedical sciences academy, which piqued her interest in the medical field and gave her the opportunity to work in a gastrointestinal cancer research lab at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. An avid musician, Norah performed as a trombonist in the Oklahoma Allstate honor band for two years and participated in the Oklahoma Youth Orchestra throughout her high school years. Norah has had many opportunities to serve as a leader in church, school, and musical groups. She is grateful for all the amazing experiences she has had so far, and is looking forward to discovering how the Lord uses them for His glory in her life.
Tell us a little about yourself—background, family, hobbies, etc.
I grew up in an incredible family who loves the Lord immensely. I was born in Michigan, but we moved around a lot when I was younger due to my dad’s job. As a result, I went to many different schools and was exposed to the cultures of places all over the country. My favorite subject in school is any kind of life science. I love playing the trombone, as well as reading everything from biographies to science fiction.
How did you get involved playing trombone? Tell us about your musical involvement over the past several years.
I started playing the trombone in my school’s sixth grade beginning band. From the beginning, I loved it, and music has been a huge part of my life ever since. In my freshman year, I began taking private lessons from Jeff Kidwell, who has been integral in making me the musician I am today. I joined the Oklahoma Youth Orchestra, where I experienced the joy of playing some of the greatest compositions written with a group of incredibly talented musicians. In addition, I was involved in the Deer Creek High School marching band, being the trombone/baritone section leader for three years. Music is one of my greatest passions, and I plan to continue doing it throughout my whole life.
You are looking toward a career in medicine. How did you get interested in that field? Tell us about your career goals.
I’ve always been interested in all things medical, ever since I was a little kid asking endless questions at every doctor’s appointment. I have loved all my biology and anatomy classes in high school, especially after joining a college-preparatory Biosciences and Medicine Academy for the past three years. Although I’m not entirely sure what specific career I will pursue, I plan to go to medical school after undergrad. Whatever I end up doing, I want to spend my life helping people, making lives better, and reflecting the love of Jesus to the world around me.
Tell us about your walk with Jesus. How have you been involved in ministry, and how are you currently involved?
I grew up going to church every week, if not more. For a long time, I assumed I was on good terms with God because my parents were saved. However, I began to feel aimless and afraid, without a purpose in life. Then, during one Sunday morning sermon, the Holy Spirit suddenly impressed upon me the full weight of my sins and my need for Jesus. At that moment, I started crying, having no idea what was happening, but later that day, I talked about it with my parents and prayed to accept Jesus into my heart. I now have an identity and a purpose in Christ, and that empowers me to live every day on mission. I have been deeply involved in my church’s student ministry, leading discipleship groups of younger girls as well as being a part of one myself. In addition, I volunteer at the free community medical clinic which my church sponsors. I am looking forward to finding more ways to be involved in ministry when I go to college.
What does it mean to you to be a Yellowstone Fellow?
The Yellowstone Fellowship has provided me with the freedom to explore my interests and really embrace this season of self-discovery in my life. Through the fellowship, God has opened a door for me to be able to focus on how I can glorify Him with my life, both now and looking towards the future. I am so grateful for this incredible opportunity.