Scott Mathern-Jacobson

How do you plan to use your theology degree when you graduate from CSB/SJU?

My plan is to go on to graduate school here at Saint John’s. My life goal is to work and stand in solidarity with the majority of the world who are poor and/or oppressed as we bring in the Kingdom of God.

What has been the highlight of your experiences with the theology department at CSB/SJU?

There have been many highlights. The professors that I have had have all been great. The classes themselves have been very interesting, worthwhile and often challenging in terms of stereotypes, etc … and the students have been interesting and engaging.

What message do you have for future students at CSB/SJU?

My situation is very different than most students at CSB/SJU. I am 37 years old with a wife (Reba, a ’94 CSB graduate who currently works for Saint John’s Prep) and three-year old daughter, Mila. Prior to coming to SJU, we lived in Catholic Worker communities for 12 years where we served and lived with homeless families and single adults and other marginalized people. We also worked on a variety of social justice issues on the local, state, national, and international levels.

My advice to other non-traditional students (as well as traditional students) is that you can make college work for you at this school. In the theology major I believe that the life experience that a non-traditional student brings into his or her study and classroom is a great advantage to themselves and to other students.

Are you involved in any other activities at CSB/SJU?

I work at CSB Campus Ministry. I am also involved in the un-official campus group "Community Committed to End the War in Iraq."