Preparation for Seminary: Stories from our Alumni

Frater Anselm Rodriguez, O.Praem., Class of 2007

My life has been profoundly enriched by my experience within the philosophy department at BC. There philosophy is viewed as far more than just another academic subject—it is about the sincere and life-changing pursuit of truth. Professors are not only intellectually and professionally excellent, but have a genuine concern for the integral formation of the students. There is a deep appreciation for Aristotle and St. Thomas Aquinas, but also a sincere commitment to bringing their perennial wisdom into meaningful and fruitful contact with modern and contemporary thinkers. The environment was not only intellectually stimulating, but formative and inspiring on the deepest level. Indeed, it is no exaggeration to say that even my vocation as a Norbertine religious (and priest, God willing)—community life rooted in union with Wisdom Incarnate—was nourished there. I am forever grateful.

JohnPaul Stedwill

While at Benedictine College, I double majored in philosophy and biology with the initial intention of pursuing medical school. My studies in the philosophy program helped me become a competitive medical school applicant and led to my receiving of multiple offers of acceptance to medical school; however, Benedictine’s philosophy program more importantly formed my mind to recognize and reflect upon truth, which greatly assisted my personal discernment to pursue the Lord not as a medical provider but through entering seminary to God-willing serve as a priest of Jesus Christ. Beyond aiding my discernment into priestly formation, I have continued to benefit academically from the philosophical foundation I received at Benedictine. The philosophy courses I took at Benedictine have augmented my seminary philosophical studies, and in many cases, they directly transferred into my seminary curriculum allowing me to deepen my seminary experience with additional courses in particular areas of philosophical and theological interest. Benedictine’s philosophy program is recognized by seminary’s as one of the strongest undergraduate programs in the country, and my experiences with the professors and fellow students in the philosophy program have provided an invaluable foundation for my seminary formation.

Timothy Kraemer

My life has been profoundly enriched by my experience within the philosophy department at BC. There philosophy is viewed as far more than just another academic subject—it is about the sincere and life-changing pursuit of truth. Professors are not only intellectually and professionally excellent, but have a genuine concern for the integral formation of the students. There is a deep appreciation for Aristotle and St. Thomas Aquinas, but also a sincere commitment to bringing their perennial wisdom into meaningful and fruitful contact with modern and contemporary thinkers. The environment was not only intellectually stimulating, but formative and inspiring on the deepest level. Indeed, it is no exaggeration to say that even my vocation as a Norbertine religious (and priest, God willing)—community life rooted in union with Wisdom Incarnate—was nourished there. I am forever grateful.