Student Profile

How do you plan to use your Theology Degree when you graduate?

As a double major in Theology and Biology, my long-term goal is to become a doctor.  I believe the two majors will help me interact with the whole person…both physically and spiritually.  For me, the spiritual component of medicine is just as important as the physical one and is the key to be a good doctor.

What has been the highlight of your experiences with the CSB/SJU Theology Department?

Definitely the Ministry Formation Program at CSB/SJU.  When our professors put this program together, they dreamt big and worked hard and it’s really paid off.  I’ve had the opportunity to travel to Northern Minnesota for a Dog Sledding Expedition and to Taize, France through the program.  In France, we met with other college kids from around the world to “talk” theology.  It was an amazing experience.

What message do you have for future students at CSB/SJU?

I would tell them to try everything they can.  If they hear of something that sounds interesting—give it a try.  Our faculty is so excited to help students try new things and discover who they are.  That’s the great thing about the Theology Department at CSB/SJU—there is so much opportunity for a student.  I also think the Theology major is one of the most relevant majors possible—really at the core of what a liberal arts education means.  No matter what career I may find myself in, I believe my Theology degree with help me to think critically about the world around me, discuss relevant topics, and in general be successful.

Are you involved in any other activities or programs at CSB/SJU?

I’m involved in the Campus Ministry program—playing flute for the student mass on Sundays.  I’m also the President of the Spanish Club and am a member of the Ballroom Dance Club.

In the spring of 2006, Shaina was one of three students from the CSB/SJU Theology Department to be awarded a grant from the Fund for Theological Education—designed to help students discern their possible call to ministry.  The grant entitles Shaina to:

• Participate in a four-day summer conference during which she will meet other young Christians from across North American and from many different Christian traditions to talk, worship, study, investigate and explore theological education and the pastoral life.
• A $1,000 award to use for college tuition, books or living expenses or to make possible a special experience related to ministry
• A possible additional $500 to “fund a mentoring relations with a pastor, professor or other guide in the discernment of each Fellow’s vocation”