From the very beginning, CSB stood out to Sarah Barkley ’26 in a way that felt deeply personal. While many colleges rely on broad outreach, it was a thoughtful, individualized email from her admissions representative that first caught her attention. That small gesture made a lasting impression—Sarah felt seen for who she was, not just as another prospective student.
Her first visit to campus took place during a mid-January blizzard, making it memorable but, in her words, “a blur.” It was during a second visit for a Fly-In weekend that everything clicked. Even without knowing the campus in detail, Sarah felt an immediate sense of belonging. CSB already felt like home.
A Liturgical Music major, Sarah found her place at the intersection of faith and music. Her involvement with Campus Ministry, along with singing in both the Women’s Choir and Chamber Choir, has been central to her experience. These roles didn’t just fill her schedule—they shaped her community, her purpose, and many of her most meaningful memories.
Among her favorites are the annual CSB+SJU Christmas Concert, a transformative choir trip to Carnegie Hall during her junior year, weekly 6 p.m. student Mass, and 5 p.m. dinners shared with close friends. Together, these moments reflect a college experience grounded in connection, creativity, and tradition.
During her time at CSB, Sarah has experienced a noticeable growth in confidence. She’s become more willing to speak up when it matters and more comfortable expressing her individuality in everyday life. One of the most important lessons she’s learned is that not every decision has a clear “right” or “wrong.” Sometimes, choices simply reflect who you are at a given moment—and that’s okay.
Community has played a defining role in Sarah’s journey. The relationships she’s built—with friends, mentors, and faculty—have shaped her experience in lasting ways. One particularly influential figure has been her supervisor at Campus Ministry, Cindy Gonzalez, whose guidance has inspired Sarah academically, professionally, and personally. She also points to the Benedictine values embedded in campus life as something uniquely special—principles that foster a strong sense of connection, purpose, and care among students.
After graduation, Sarah will continue her academic journey at the University of Notre Dame, where she plans to pursue a Master of Theological Studies in Liturgical Studies. It’s a fitting next step that builds on her passion for sacred music and liturgy. Looking ahead, Sarah is excited for what the future holds—trusting in the path ahead and grateful for the friendships and experiences that have shaped her.
Sarah’s advice for incoming students is both practical and heartfelt: find a balance between work and play. College is a time to prepare for the future, but also a time to fully live in the present. Enjoy the moments, because you never know when something might be the last time—or if there will be a next time.
She hopes to be remembered for her passion for sacred music and liturgy, her care for her friends, and her love of dad jokes—a combination that captures both her dedication and her joy.
On a beautiful day, you’ll likely find Sarah at the library/learning center balcony at Saint John’s—taking in the view, reflecting, and appreciating a college journey that began with a simple email and grew into something unforgettable.