Outstanding Senior in Religious Studies
"During my time at Purdue, I have been able to enjoy Religious Studies far beyond the classroom. It truly is a degree that immerses students in various cultural and religious contexts so that they can see for themselves what different groups believe. For academic credit, I have been able to attend a Catholic mass, visit a Jehova's Witness meeting, stay at a Romanian Orthodox Monastery, sit in on a lecture about Aristotle, and listen to speakers discussing Buddhism and Hinduism, among many other amazing experiences. My professors in this field have taught me invaluable knowledge that has shaped the way I see the world and allowed me to understand the ideas that have influenced history." Drake Shadle 2026
“I entered Purdue as a history major, excited to analyze documents, write essays, and uncover the past. Though I had no intentions of adding any other majors or minors, one Religious Studies course quickly changed my mind. Dr. Ryba’s course on the Theology of Paul showed me how intertwined history and Religious Studies can be, and inspired a love for studying religion that I have carried with me since.” Lauren Vopicka 2025