Graduate Profile: Ciarra Choe, MTS ‘25

How I've Changed  

I've become a completely different person! My brain has been cracked open in ways I didn’t expect—intellectually, spiritually, and personally. My values have shifted. I’ve been challenged to rethink what really matters and what’s just noise. I’d say I’ve been radicalized in the best sense; more attuned to power, to suffering, to responsibility. My critical thinking has sharpened but so has my reverence for the unknown. 

Memorable Moment 

My most memorable moment at HDS is hearing Dean Teddy sing at Noon Service. It was quite the spiritual experience! 

Favorite Class or Professor 

One of my favorite classes was "Sex, Gender, and Sexuality" with Dr. Ben Dunning. It allowed me to reflect on how we theorize desire, longing, and the language that surrounds them. I also loved taking "Indian/Buddhist Philosophy" with Dr. Parimal Patil, whose teaching challenged me to think with analytical precision across vastly different metaphysical systems. 

Message of Thanks  

I’m deeply grateful to my grandparents for their constant support, and to my little siblings, Avery and Lucas, whose FaceTime calls always cheered me up when I needed it most. I also want to thank those who have supported me in showing up more authentically and have gracefully challenged my way of thinking. Special shoutout to Tristan, Gabbi, Mayra, Parimal, Joe, and Samira. 

What I Hope to Be Remembered By 

Honestly? Probably for reading people’s astrology charts at parties and somehow connecting it back to Jung. But more seriously, I hope I’m remembered as someone who made space for others to explore their ideas; someone who could be a thoughtful conversation partner, whether the topic was philosophical, spiritual, or just life. 

Future Plans 

After graduation, I’ll be teaching religious studies and philosophy at Northfield Mount Hermon School while pursuing a master's in teaching leadership. Long term, I still dream about a PhD—maybe in South Asian studies or philosophy. But for now, I’m focused on being present, teaching well, and staying open to what unfolds :-)