Few things conjure joy quite like the phrase “the application is live.” You may disagree. After all, at this time last year we were in a similar space. However, a year later we offer a different understanding. Let us convince you through the expertise and confidence especially generated by first-semester students!

Before applying…

  1. Avail of the resources offered by Admissions. If you are able, schedule a visit to campus during which you can attend a class, meet with Admissions, tour Simboli Hall, and get a sense of what life has to offer here at the CSTM. Admissions also offers webinars run by our Admissions team and CSTM faculty, focusing on our specific programs. For anyone who would like to hear a student’s perspective, we Admissions GAs are always happy to set up a time to discern together.
  2. Put to rest any anxieties you have about whether you are not enoughㅡnot experienced enough, not young enough, not knowledgeable enough, or not Catholic enough (or at all!). Applicants come from all walks of life and all experience levels. What makes a strong application is not your ability to fit into a certain mold; it is your ability to convey your own personal narrative in the context of your interest in the CSTM. Our paths are not always linear and that is more than okay! Difference adds to the richness of our community. Side note: your relationship with your faith does not need to be perfect so long as you are courageous and curious!
  3. Know your why. Why the CSTM, but also why the specific program within the CSTM? Likewise, the narrative you are crafting in your application does not end upon receipt of your graduate diploma. So even if the exact details of your future are not laid out, your application should reflect in some way how the CSTM fits into that future. You may find during your time at the CSTM that you are awakened to a new and unexpected path, but this current “why” matters now.
  4. Have some idea of how the CSTM is logistically feasible for you. Does it make sense within the context and demands of your life? For example, begin considering how you might balance coursework with your other responsibilities. At the CSTM, classes are held at various times throughout the day, but some required classes tend to meet at specific times. We in Admissions are always happy to discuss with prospective students how they might adapt their course of study to fit within their lives, but do not want to set anyone up for an overly challenging experience. Still, that is for you to decide what is overly challenging!
  5. Consider setting up a timeline for your application process. Life happens, timelines change, but it can be helpful to plan how you will complete your application. For example: When will you ask possible recommenders to work with you? When would you like to work on your personal statement? Applying to graduate studies can be daunting, but is something to celebrate; planning ahead can enable you to complete the application in a positive headspace that celebrates your hard work.

As you begin to work on your application and submit it (yay!)…

  1. Allow your why to inform your essays. Before writing, take additional time to reflect on why you are applying to your particular program at the CSTM. Your essay should speak to the in-application requirements, which are really an invitation to connect your studies to your why. What experiences have you had that are pulling you toward the CSTM? What are your interests, and how will your education prepare you as a minister in light of those interests? Why are you pursuing this degree here, and why is that important?
  2. Conceptualize the interview as a mutual discernment process. Interviews can be anxiety-inducing. At the CSTM, though, interviews are an opportunity for discernment: we want you to experience the CSTM through its people and questions, and we also want to hear your unique experiences and insights regarding theology and ministry and your desire to study at the CSTM. We hope to introduce applicants to the themes and questions we hope they will continue to engage with while a student here. Feel free to bring any (really, any) questions you have for us as well! Our goal is mutual discernment.
  3. Take time to choose your recommenders! Select folks who know you well and who can speak to your capacity for success in graduate school. For degree applicants, at least two recommenders should come from faculty members. If you have been out of school for a while or are having trouble selecting recommenders, just reach out to us!
  4. Life happens. As the application process unfolds, give yourself the grace of realism. Even the best application plan may need to flex or adapt in response to family or work events, unexpected issues or joys, or even just the speed of life. The grace of realism allows you to recognize what needs to be accomplished, the time you have, and resources available, so that your process can adapt to reality. You are not a machine in a vacuum; give yourself the time and freedom to adapt your process as your circumstances evolve.

Closing thoughts and information:

  1. Deadlines. Everyone loves a deadline! Please be mindful of the deadline for your program.
  2. The application process can be daunting, but help is available! Like we said, the joy of a live application is true, but we have the privilege of hindsight that we didn’t have as applicants. If you are struggling to choose a program, to understand the application requirements, or anything at all, please reach out to Admissions. The team is always excited to talk with prospective students and to accompany people like you through the process. Feel free to reach out at stmadm@bc.edu or 617-552-6506.
  3. We look forward to reading your application, so if you’ve been thinking of applying but have been holding off, this is your sign to head to our application page and go, go, go!
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