We have the most outstanding students in the Department of Religious Studies. One such student is Ashley Alderman Forgey, a graduating senior.
We caught up with her to talk about why she chose to study Religious Studies and her plans for the future.
Why did you decide to major in Religious Studies?
I credit my decision to pursue a religious studies education to a former instructor of mine. In Spring 2014, I took a course called ‘Introduction to the Old Testament' where I first experienced what the academic study of religion entailed. I was enthralled by the material and from that point on, an unwavering passion grew. By the end of that semester, my instructor advised that I seriously consider religious studies as an academic path. At the time, I pictured myself on a different path, but I always kept her encouraging words in the back of my mind. As the years passed, I slowly started to realize that maybe Professor Floyd was right all along. After accepting a position of employment at Georgia State University, I decided it was time to pursue a Religious Studies degree.
What were some of your favorite courses and assignments?
'Jesus Inside and Outside Gospels', 'Early Christianity', and 'Issues in Religious Studies (Evil and God)'. I considerably enjoyed learning about these topics at the intellectual depth these courses offered. It further cultivated my interest in the historical and intellectual developments of Christianity. Regarding my favorite assignments, I found a great amount of creative freedom through Dr. Moultrie’s multimedia projects. They allowed me a chance to express my uniqueness and style while also contributing to my overall learning of the course material.
What was the best part of your experience in the Department of Religious Studies?
The Department of Religious Studies has made me believe my possibilities are endless. I have been exposed to new ways of thinking through the diverse faculty, staff, and student body, challenging me to grow my intellectual capacities and broaden my worldviews. I am not the same person as when I first entered the undergraduate program in Fall 2019. I could not have achieved this level of personal and academic growth without the constant support and encouragement I received from this department.
What do you plan to do after graduation?
After graduation, I will begin the MA Religious Studies program this upcoming fall. I am excited to see what personal growth and educational opportunities will arise on this next step in my educational journey.