Gonzaga and me

I must admit that prior to coming to campus for a class immersion, I thought Gonzaga was much like the University of Arizona, where I completed my undergraduate education. While I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Arizona, the experience I had in Spokane was illuminating! Perhaps it is because I am now 20 years older, and what I am looking for in a university goes beyond the sorority and campus life, and rather a focus on community. I found this communal feeling almost immediately, and this feeling continue throughout my three- day on campus journey.

As I reflect on this feeling and try to underst

and it, I am immediately drawn towards the educators, the curriculum, and their intentionality regarding the Jesuit philosophy of Ignatian pedagogy. This philosophy, which was created by Saint Ignatian of Loyola in the 16th century, is an educational approach where instructors begin by helping students see the context of their learning in the big picture. Students are then asked to experience, reflect, and act based on this learning.

The best part is that this philosophy, which often goes unnamed, is evident in not only the teachings but all over campus. The students and teachers embody this to their core. I can recall having my first session with my assigned advisor, which by the way, who assigns an individual advisor? I don’t think I ever spoke to an advisor during my undergrad years ever! This person spent time talking to me about my upcoming journey and if I had any emotions around starting school after 20 years, and of course I did. I was suffering from imposter syndrome. Could I or would I be successful? It would have been a lot easier to not proceed. After all, I was doing this for my own benefit, and no one would know. I could make up an excuse and that would be that. But, as my advisor started to talk to me about my emotions, she was encouraging and told me that I would in fact be successful and armed me with advice to ensure I would be successful. This is Ignatian Pedagogy to me. Rather than placing the emphasis on the grade or the curriculum, she wanted me, as a person, to be successful. I am here at this school because of this advisor and this philosophy!