Please introduce yourself- name, educational background, year/degree from GSU, area of study/interest in religious studies.
Hi! My name is Madeline Donaldson, and I am a third-year student studying Religious Studies. I graduated from North Springs Charter High School in 2020 and I am getting my first post-secondary degree. As for my current interest in religious studies, I am interested in pre-Christian Europe and Catholicism in media.
What has been your most memorable experience in the Religious Studies Department at GSU thus far?
My most memorable experience in the religious department at GSU so far has been taking Dr. Bell’s course on religious sites in Atlanta. We visited the BAPS Mandir--a Hindu temple and the Temple—a synagogue, just to name a few. It also inspired me to take a study abroad trip this coming Spring Break.
What is something useful you’ve learned from your time in the BA program in religious studies thus far?
Something I’ve learned is to think critically and be critical of my interests. It's easy as a young person to think I know everything and to be frank, I think I know a lot. It's important to remember that I don’t, and I should always stop, think, and ask why I think/ feel a certain way.
What are your future plans?
My future plans are to get a master’s in library science and hopefully continue my religious studies.
Any advice for prospective students considering a degree in religious studies?
Do your readings! They are overwhelming and it's best to start them early. I would also encourage them to talk with professors. I used to think they were scary, but they just want to help you and you will always learn something from engaging with them.
Tell us more about yourself- interests, hobbies, etc.
I am a musician and I play the trumpet. I played throughout middle and high school, and I hope to find ways to play as I grow older. I also do media analysis of television and lyric analysis. I am also a big reader; I am constantly reading and my bookshelf at home is overflowing with books I STILL need to read. I like to read romance, adventure, comedy, and fantasy.