In today’s cultural landscape, being a pro-life advocate in college is increasingly uncommon. A Gallup poll reveals that 70% of college graduates identify as pro-choice, while only 29% align with pro-life views. Even among those with some college education, the numbers show a clear pro-choice majority at 56%, compared to 39% who identify as pro-life. This makes college-aged pro-life advocates uncommon—and their voices even more vital as they stand up for life and prepare to pass on this mission to future generations.
We interviewed two dedicated Baylor University students, Sarah Carter and James Foley, to share their experiences and insights on what it means to stand up for life on their campuses.
Sarah Carter
Hometown: Geneva, IL
Sarah first got involved in the pro-life movement at the age of 16 after reading Abby Johnson’s book Unplanned. “I realized how much I cared about this issue and its importance,” she recalls. She joined her church’s small pro-life group. When she started college at Baylor University, she became active with their pro-life club, Bears for Life, eventually serving as an officer, vice president, and president. Now, she’s heading into her senior year.
James Foley
Hometown: Lakewood, TX
James grew up Catholic, where pro-life values were a significant part of his faith. He participated in 40 Days for Life and was involved with Waco Students for Life during high school. In college at Baylor University, he joined Bears for Life and currently engages in pro-life ministry outreach through his church.
What is it like to be a Pro-Life Advocate in College?
At Baylor University, the pro-life club Bears for Life actively participates in hosting speaker meetings for education. They also organize volunteer opportunities off campus to engage with and support the community. On campus, Sarah and her group set up a table in a central location to engage students with thought-provoking questions like, “When do you think life begins?” and “Is abortion healthcare?” These discussions help gauge campus opinions and provide opportunities for others to get involved.
James acknowledges the challenges of discussing pro-life views on campus, particularly with female friends. “As a man, it’s tricky to talk about this without seeming overbearing,” he says. Still, James believes it’s important for men to speak up on life-affirming issues.
Speaking to Gen Z about the Pro-Life Movement
James offers valuable insights into how to engage with Gen Z on abortion and the pro-life movement.
James comments on how the pro-life movement has approached advocacy in the past, particularly recalling his experience at the March for Life in DC. “I’ve gone to the March for Life in DC, and that’s where I really saw these graphic images,” he explains. “I don’t think that’s a good method. The people about to have an abortion probably aren’t evil or malicious; they may not know the science or morals behind it.”
He believes his generation is taking a different approach. Reflecting on his experience speaking to Gen Z about abortion, James says, “You can’t really brute-force someone’s opinion; it comes down to showing them that the reason I have this opinion is because I care about you as a person. It’s a personal motivation that really touches hearts and minds, leading to a change in their opinions.”
The Future of the Pro-Life Movement
The future of the pro-life movement will continue to grow and change with the next generation. Sarah adds, “When talking to Gen Z and people on campus, adopting a compassionate stance is crucial. Our generation values compassion, caring for others, and showing love. Being from Illinois, where being pro-life isn’t very common, I find that demonstrating genuine care and love is essential.”
She further explains, “Many people, including those who have experienced abortion, often see pro-lifers as wanting their baby more than them or wanting them to be hurt as long as the baby is okay.” She continues, “I think loving them [moms] well and caring for them is important. It’s also important to be their friend and show them compassion and that you want to hear their issues, even if they are issues that you can’t always support. I think a lot of us really just need love in this generation.”
Advice to Other Pro-Life Advocates in College
For those considering joining the movement as college students, Sarah advises, “Stay convicted about it. Don’t let yourself be moved. Love these people as deeply as you can. When everyone seems to be against you, it’s easy to put up a guard, push away from them, and go hang out with your own group that agrees with you. I think reaching out in love and trying to know and care for these people deeply is what is going to make the difference.”
James also stresses the importance of staying convicted in pro-life beliefs. “It can feel taboo to hold this opinion, but we shouldn’t shy away from it. The more people stand up for life, the more it will become a widely held view that life begins at conception. It’s about showing others that our stance comes from a place of love and care for them as individuals.”
Being a Pro-Life Advocate in College
Sarah and James’ stories and passion serve as an inspiration to us and the pro-life movement. With students like them across the U.S., the truth about abortion can get to more college students and be carried through to the next generations.
Our mobile medical clinics serve over 80 cities, including many college towns, and we provide crucial support to pregnant students. If you’re moved by Sarah and James’ commitment to making a difference, consider donating or becoming a monthly partner today. Your support can help us continue this vital work and reach our goal of creating equal access to motherhood.
