Words of Wisdom for New Students

August 23, 2019
Taylor Stewart and David Waters
David Waters and Taylor Stewart at the Black Religion, Spirituality, and Culture Conference in 2016.

More than 100 new graduate students arrive on campus for Orientation starting August 27. For some, it’s the start of their graduate studies. For others, it’s a new chapter in their life.

The 2019-20 incoming class includes approximately 130 students who represent more than 30 religious traditions, as well as those with no religious affiliation. Within the U.S., they come from places near and far⁠—from Maine to New York, and from Indiana to California.

We are thrilled to have so many international students joining us on campus, too! Among the various countries represented are: Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Japan, China, Vietnam, Singapore, Pakistan, Jerusalem, and England.

HDS Communications asked Taylor Stewart, MDiv '18, and former president of the HDS Student Association, what advice she has for new students.

HDS: What was something you wish someone had told you during your first year at HDS?

Taylor Stewart: “Do what you can, not what you can’t.” This is what Visiting Professor Brad Braxton told my colleagues and I in our first class meeting of “Preaching, Healing, and Justice” in the spring of 2016. This phrase has not left me since, and is applicable to so many areas of our lives—from our studies, to our religious communities, to our jobs, to our social justice work, or whatever work it is that we do. I extend his piece of advice to all the incoming students as you journey through HDS and life beyond this place.

HDS: What are some of the best resources you found while here?

TS: Some of the best resources that I have found while here are the Office of Ministry Studies (OMS) and the Field Education Program, Office of Student Life (OSL), and the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life (RSL). OMS has been extremely helpful to me throughout my time here, be it for field education or other opportunities. I appreciate the spaces RSL provides to students to center themselves and also get a glimpse into other religious practices. Finally, OSL has been an amazing resource! From the weekly Community Tea gathering, to student events, to weekly bulletins, to providing workshop trainings on a plethora of skills, I am truly grateful for that office. (And I don’t say that just because I happen to work there.)

HDS: What is something that’s surprised you during your time here?

TS: I’ve been surprised by how phenomenal my colleagues are. I never would have imagined that I would have met so many amazing people who are passionate about the work they are doing. In addition to the distinguished professors here at HDS, the student body is also quite incredible. From social activists, to authors, to religious leaders, entrepreneurs, non-profit founders, lawyers, doctors—it really has been a joy to cross paths with so many driven and caring individuals.

HDS: Can you name your favorite on-campus study space?

TS: My favorite on-campus study space is the main floor of the Andover-Harvard Theological Library. I enjoy this space because I can sit by a window or in the silent room if I want quiet space, but I can also run into so many colleagues and have great conversations and study partners.

HDS: What should students make sure to take advantage of?

TS: Take advantage of the events that happen on our campus and on other Harvard campuses! It is easy to become so entrenched in your own work and studies that you don’t experience all that is offered to you in your time here. There are so many amazing events with so many influential and accomplished people in the U.S. and around the world. It would be a shame not to experience some of these events while you are here.

HDS: If you could only pick one, what’s the can’t-miss event students should attend?

TS: There are so many events, that it is hard to choose. But, if I had to choose one that I feel the majority of HDS student would enjoy, it would be Seasons of Light. This event takes place at the end of November and it truly is a sacred space that celebrates light across religious backgrounds. I have thoroughly enjoyed this event each year that I’ve been here, and I look forward to attending this year as well. Just make sure to get there on time, as the seats go quickly!

HDS: What do you think has been the biggest challenge for you so far, and how have you overcome that or worked to overcome that?

TS: The biggest challenge for me has been dealing with institutional racism, sexism, and othering. These are things that will present themselves wherever you go. I cope with these challenges by always having a close group of fellow students to talk to, as well as by attending events and meetings where these challenges can be directly addressed. What makes HDS special is that it provides us with a space to address these challenges and formulate ways to bring about necessary changes in order to promote a more inclusive and representative environment, within the student body, tenured professorship, and the breadth of academic work studied.

HDS: Any last tips for the incoming students?

TS: Be confident, and know that you belong here. You are not here by mistake. Your voice is valid and needed. Bring the essence of who you are into every space that you enter here.

Editor's note: This interview was originally published on August 23, 2017. It has been updated as of August 23, 2019.