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A Transfer to Drew Theological School

Rae Guthrie T’26 shares their transfer experience

August 2024 – Drew Theological School Master of Divinity (MDiv) student Rae Guthrie T’26 (they/them) started their theological academic journey at the Methodist Theological School in Ohio (MTSO).

But Drew’s renowned faculty led Guthrie to pursue their education at the Theological School. Drew’s faculty firmly believes that engaging the world’s challenges and struggles for social and ecological justice is critical to and integrated throughout the student learning experience

Guthrie shares their transfer experience and time at Drew so far from the perspective as an online student to now living on campus. Here is what they had to say.

Why Drew Theological School?
When I first started my seminary journey, I was interested and applied to Drew, as well as MTSO. While I enjoyed my learning and education at MTSO, I was discerning some other life circumstances and wanted to have the opportunity to learn from the faculty here at Drew. A close friend of mine was already a student at Drew and her experience also made me curious. 

It has been very much a “best of both worlds” experience for me. I began my first semester at Drew completely online, but had the chance to move to campus this summer to complete my program. I am very much looking forward to being in community and attending classes in-person on campus.

How was the transfer process?
The transfer process felt very smooth and easy. I was in a dual degree program at MTSO. I finished one of the degrees and started at Drew the next semester, but I had credits to transfer. Hilary McKane [Director of Graduate Academic Services] was very helpful in guiding me through the process of which credits would qualify for transfer. I was most concerned about how to navigate the transferring of credits and I had the support I needed to make the right decision for me. 

When I was considering moving to campus, Kirsten Trambley [Assistant Director of Theological Admissions] was incredibly helpful in chatting with me about the area and what would be helpful to know about Madison, since I was moving from out of state.

How has your experience at Drew been?
I have enjoyed so much of my experience so far. I have been challenged and inspired by my professors. Now that I am on campus full-time, I am one of the garden stewards for the Drew Theo Community Garden. Working in the garden with Dr. Kearns [Professor of Ecology, Religion, and Society] and the other stewards has been such a joy and great learning experience. My interests are rooted in ecological justice and all its intersections and the garden is an opportunity to put that interest into practical application.

Any advice for those thinking of transferring to Drew?
Don’t be afraid to ask all the questions! Make a campus visit or attend an online open house. Browse the faculty page on the website to learn more about who you’ll be learning from while here at Drew.

What are your vocational goals?
I am considering a PhD after my master’s studies. Outside of academia, though, I am discerning ordination in the United Methodist Church as a Deacon. I hope to focus on ecological justice/ecotheology/food justice in either a church based ministry or non-profit; bonus if I’m able to grow food in that setting and educate about sustainability and climate change through a theological framework.

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