Two of the first students to graduate from the hybrid Master of Divinity share their thoughts on their time at General.

The Rev. Amy Crawford

What made you choose GTS for your Master of Divinity?

I chose GTS because it offered some really unique opportunities. First, it allowed me to engage with GTS’s exceptional and rigorous academics, while continuing to be rooted in my own community, where I could directly practice what I was learning. Second, it offered me the ability to explore what ministry looks like in an age where institutional flexibility is paramount.

What was it like to study on the hybrid MDiv program?

I had a phenomenal experience with the MDiv hybrid program. I knew that I would get a great education, but what I didn’t expect was that I would find a rich and loving community that would be instrumental in my formation, and would become some of my closest friends and colleagues. 

Were any courses particularly impactful for you?

The most impactful courses for me were the liturgics classes at GTS. They inspired in me a greater love for Christ, a deeper passion for the Church, and a sense of holy awe at the altar. 

What is your favorite memory from your time studying at GTS?

My favorite memory of my time at GTS was – really – any of the intensives! Getting to spend such joyful time with my classmates, supporting one another, laughing with one another, being formed by and with each other – they were such a gift, and I will always look back particularly at our time together in the chapel.

What qualities do you most appreciate in your peers at GTS?

The thing I most appreciate about my classmates is that every single one of them are doing enormously brilliant and brave things in the church, and they all see that work through a mutual lens. There is no competitiveness among my classmates, but rather profound cooperative love for the work of ministry and the growth of The Episcopal Church. 

What would you say to someone thinking of applying for the hybrid MDiv?

To anyone who is thinking about applying to the hybrid MDiv: Know that this program is truly transformative. You will be formed heart, mind, and spirit through Christ and the deep and loving work of the faculty and your classmates, and this sacred place – your seminary – will always feel like “home”.

Bright Obeng

What made you choose GTS for your Master of Divinity?

The location, the hybrid program, the Seminary’s history and its diversity.

What was it like to study on the hybrid MDiv program?

The program was rigorous, spiritually formative, and context-affirming, with great professors and students.

Were any courses particularly impactful for you?

Family Systems, Dying, Death and Grief. These courses particularly revealed to me my deepest background and the humility to live and serve others.

What is your favorite memory from your time studying at GTS?

Coming together during the intensive week and getting to know one another and hearing others’ stories.

What qualities do you most appreciate in your peers at GTS?

Their individual experiences and perspectives. 

What are your future plans?

I’m planning to return to being an active-duty military chaplain.

What would you say to someone thinking of applying for the hybrid MDiv?

If you want flexibility with great training from experienced professors, GTS is the greatest choice of all time.