Courtney Elizabeth Partner

What was the most impactful class you took in your major?  

RELI 311 Jesus and the Gospels was by far the most impactful class I took within my major because it made me entirely rethink the aims and methodologies of the field of religious studies. This class taught me to examine the history of Christianity in a way that I never previously imagined. Most importantly, my professor Dr. Gunderson emphasized that the way we speak about things--about history, religious movements, and movement followers--matters; the importance of nuance in religious studies scholarship cannot be understated! 
 
What activities were you involved in during your time at Mason that impacted you?  

During my time at Mason, I helped lead the Society for the Study of Religion (SSR), an RSO committed to the academic study of religion through historical, sociological, and anthropological lenses. This community of like-minded and wonderfully curious individuals helped me to expand my knowledge and gain perspective in my field; but more than this, SSR was a space that facilitated so many meaningful friendships and fun experiences. 
 
What is your most memorable “Mason moment?”  

My most memorable moment at Mason was when my friend splashed in rain puddles with me in Presidents Park while it was storming in the middle of the night--this was one of only a few truly stress-free moments of my undergraduate experience! 
 
As you are reflecting on your time at Mason, what is one piece of advice you would give a student who is just starting off on their Mason journey? 

I would advise people just starting out at Mason to really make an effort to build and find community here; it can be difficult to put down roots at a school with a commuter-culture, but it is absolutely possible and endlessly worth it. 
 
What is your next step after graduation? What are your future plans?

After graduation, I plan to spend a few years working and then hopefully I will go to grad school for religious studies!