Posted by Katie, UST junior, Business Leadership and Management, Communications, and Catholic Studies

Some may cringe at the question. Others take a deep breath and prepare a long-winded answer sounding much like an “I don’t know” response. The question is similar to the high school senior’s “where do you plan on going to school?”, or the college freshman’s “what’s your major?” It cannot be escaped.
As a student of the Opus College of Business AND Catholic Studies I can honestly say that this question excites me more than most. This simple question tells me that I have a chance to offer a quick elevator pitch for why I believe Catholic Studies is not only the unifying and completing element of my education and personal life, but it is also a perfect complement to a business degree. Though they may be offering questions for small talk, I see it as an opportunity to spread the good news of Catholic Studies.

What, then, do I consider the good news of Catholic Studies? Well, where to start? As a junior in the program I have had the opportunity to participate in many programs around campus, such as athletics and intramurals, Student Alumni Council, campus leadership, student employment and so on and so forth. The good news is that Catholic Studies students are integrated everywhere! You’ll find them in business classes, in student government, working behind the scenes in the cafeteria, writing for the Aquin, leading volunteer trips around the world, leading the choir, participating in Varsity athletics, and hosting campus social events and service work. You’ll find them in business suits and lab coats, in sports uniforms and in khakis. I am, and we are, proud of our roots in Catholic Studies. I stand for something bigger and I am not hesitant to say it!
More specifically, Catholic Studies brings perspective to my education and to my life (I’d say that’s some pretty good news too!). Yes, I hope to secure an internship for the summer and a job in a competitive position upon graduation. But this does not distract me from the fact that my role as a human is to live for the glory and honor of God. As a businessperson well integrated in society, my faith and values will guide me. I will respect the dignity in each person I have the opportunity to interact with, and ultimately good will come of it. Though I know it will be tough and it may be taken advantage of, I am confident that from this philosophy, success is manifested in many forms. I am thankful for the perspective, the people, and the opportunities of Catholic Studies. And I could write a book on the subject!
As a matter of fact, maybe I will. I’ll be traveling to the Bernardi Campus in Rome through Catholic Studies for the spring semester, so look for future updates from Rome, Italy!!!