"My final fall semester was a journey deeper into theology and philosophy.  Upon finishing I felt very relieved, but also sad to see my last fall term come to a close.  Last spring I contacted a philosophy professor Vicki Jenkins about doing a one-on-one study on Eastern healing.  When the semester commenced we jumped headlong into the philosophy and teachings of Reiki.  This class proved to be an exciting course that required much journaling and reflection.  Professor Jenkins did a brilliant job: keeping me both involved in the course material and focused on my senior commitments.

In addition to the directed study I had three theology courses.  One was my senior seminar class, a course that involved paper after paper on the development of my own theology and entering into conversations with the writings of various theologians throughout history.  Another course was an Old Testament class on the prophetic and wisdom books of the Bible.  This particular course demanded an extensive amount of reading and memorization.  I, along with the other students, somehow managed to conquer the class and make it one step closer to graduation.  The final theology course focused on religion in America.  We covered the development of religious life in the United States from the arrival of Europeans to America up until the current times.  I felt this class did an exceptional job of teaching the students how many various cultures and religious identities exist within the melting pot that is America, and better prepared me for interacting with the world post graduation.

Outside of class I have stayed involved in my fraternity as we continue to experience a period of growth within the chapter.  Last year I was elected by my own class as one of eight seniors to serve on the senior committee.  This committee undertakes the task of financial decision making for the class of 2012, as well as event and commencement planning.  We have a really talented group, and the connections I have formed with other council members as a result of our work is truly special. 

Preparing to graduate this May has not been an easy task.  I feel some anxiety about the next chapter of my life, though I know that I am well prepared for most anything that life may throw at me.  I cannot imagine a richer story than the one I am writing thanks to the generous support of the Lily Endowment and the Scott County Community Foundation.  All prayers and wishful thoughts are much appreciated as I begin my final semester as an undergraduate and take on comprehensive exams and my senior thesis."