Commencement

Memorable Moment One of my most memorable moments at the school was praying in the meditation room at the Center for the Study of World Religions a few months prior to being accepted into the ThD program, not knowing if I would come back but grateful for...

How I've Changed  When I first enrolled at HDS, I lacked spiritual conviction in any religion. Although I was raised Christian and had an endless fascination with religion, I often longed to experience what it meant to believe in something greater than...

Memorable Moment That epic outdoor dance party for staff, faculty, and students last fall was *chef's kiss*—shoutout to Katie Caponera for staffing after hours, and Xavier Sayeed for the impeccable DJ set. Message of Thanks The Harvard Buddhist Community...

Favorite Class or Professor Kimberley Patton’s “Birds in the Ancient World” was a wonderful reminder of academia’s potential to create space for genuinely curious exploration of an unknown world. Message of Thanks Kimberley Patton, David Carrasco, David...

How I've Changed Over these past two years, I have grown immensely. Returning to school helped me shape a vision for my life and gave me the resources to set out in its pursuit. This time was transformative; I am humbled by the entire experience. Message...

How I've Changed HDS guided me to return to myself again. I came here to become who, deep down, I’m not: an academic. I then almost became further removed from myself, never to return; I nearly pivoted completely into the world of business, which is...

How I've Changed My reliance upon God and His daily provision increased dramatically at HDS. During especially stressful times, I always found Him near, reminding me of His adoration and promise not to abandon me. I would not have passed a couple of exams...

How I've Changed Since I began my studies at HDS, I have undergone significant personal and academic growth. As a writer, researcher, and student, I have been fortunate to immerse myself in historical scholarship in profound and provocative ways. It's...

How I've Changed I have gained a greater appreciation for my own and others' spirituality. I learned to appreciate the difference between appreciating the aesthetics of religion, and appreciating the substance. I know nothing else matters besides ultimate...

Favorite Class or Professor Many thanks to Professor Charles Hallisey for his patience, genius, and unwavering support. Professor Hallisey has always encouraged me in pursuing my academic and non-academic interests with compassion and genuine interest...