Hometown
Vienna, VA

Undergraduate Institution and Major
University of Notre Dame, Majors: Music & Spanish, Minors: Education, Schooling, and Society & Catholic Social Tradition 

Why CSTM?
STM is a place where I can flourish intellectually and spiritually within a community that supports me as I discern how I will enact change in the Church and the world. The expertise and mentorship of professors, the rich student life, and the commitment of the CSTM to justice in ministry inspire me daily and make the CSTM a place I love to be.

My Experience
I had the opportunity to complete a directed readings course with three CSTM faculty members that was a very meaningful experience for my personal and professional development at CSTM. It was incredible to be able to develop a syllabus, dive into important topics, and engage in this learning with faculty members drawing from their expertise in dialogue with the course materials. Throughout the process, I felt so supported in pursuing scholarship that mattered to me, and I will continue drawing from this experience in my future work.

Hometown
Pensacola, FL

Undergraduate Institute and Major
University of Notre Dame

Most Meaningful Course
Fr. Dunkle's Trinity in the Early Church course was fundamental to my academic formation. It was challenging and rigorous, but I was completely engaged in the material. Its intellectual rigor challenged my mind to its full extent; furthermore, the course reminded me that what the Trinity and other more "abstract" dogma should never be divorced from the lived experience of Christianity. This class and others have been an inspiration to pursue a doctorate in theology.

My Experience
The CSTM is a great fit for me because it emphasizes community without sacrificing any academic rigor. When applying for a MTS, a major priority for me was forming mentorships with faculty and students who take seriously their studies. In both respects the CSTM has fulfilled this desire. Faculty are strongly invested in the academic and overall career success of their students, and I have met wonderful students who inspire me to consider how my academic vocation will positively impact the life of the church. Along with this, the great breadth of courses available to students through the BTI, and especially the main campus, provide students many options for coursework. With this variety, students can tailor their degree to the theological interests and engage with doctoral classes and students, both at BC and across Boston.

Community
STM events, and especially the lunches following Thursday liturgy, have been a great way to foster community for me. Perhaps even more formative for me, though, are the casual and informal conversations and friendships I have formed in the classroom, walking by others in the library, and around campus. In these interactions, It is always encouraging to see familiar faces from the classroom in the library as we all try to journey in our learning together.

Hometown
Puerto Varas, Chile

Undergraduate Institution and Major
Theology, Pontifical Catholic University of Chile

My Experience
I have only been at the CSTM for one semester and I have already been able to build deep and meaningful friendships. I found people within the CSTM community that share many of my interests and attractions. This past semester I attended a doctoral seminar in the “Theology of Edward Schillebeeckx” where I encountered, not just classmates, but friends. A relation born out of shared theological concerns and passion for research.

Undergraduate Institution and Major
Fresno State University, Hispanic Literature

Experience
The accompaniment and mentorship of my academic advisor has been key for my educational success while at the CSTM. Dr. Hosffman Ospino has been a great support helping me to transition from my pastoral ministry background to academic scholarship, discerning my research project, broadening my network, and strengthening my research and writing skills.

Community
The CSTM is intentional providing spaces for community building through the liturgy, students-led groups, and cultural celebrations. Additionally, the program cohorts are small allowing us to connect at a deeper level with our peers. My Ph.D. cohort has become my family and primary support in the academic struggle as well as in life challenges.

Hometown
Jakarta, Indonesia

Undergraduate Institute and Major
Southeast Asia Bible Seminary, Bachelor in Theology

Most Meaningful Experience
CSTM has a very dynamic and diverse learning environment. I love how each professor has their own distinctive way of imparting knowledge in a way that is not only educational but also beneficial to my spiritual formation. The assignments give me the flexibility to make the connection with my own research interests. Also, as an international student in the class who speaks English as a second language, I value the professors' consideration for me and how they give me an opportunity to voice my opinions.

My Experience
As a foreigner who just came to the US, I found CSTM to be a warm and welcoming community. My most memorable experience was the GA orientation, where it was the first time I met some good friends of mine. Also, I particularly enjoy the weekly mass and community lunch because it allows me to meet different kinds of people, including the faculty members, who turn out to be really approachable.