School of Intercultural Studies

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Student Reflections on their Degree
(Tabitha Singh is a second-year student in the Master of Arts in Crosscultural Studies program )

I grew up in a Christian home with a passion for justice and earnest compassion for others.  From an early age, I was drawn to the marginalized and fought for others to be included, and treated with respect and dignity on the playground at school and even with strangers.  I did not understand the potential of this character trait and although I always longed to be in missions, did not see what I could do or how God might use me as a unique individual.  After seeking God's direction for my life when I graduated from college, however, I realized that I could use that desire for justice and fair treatment for God's glory.

I came to Fuller for missiological training towards a future career in social justice.  Specifically, I’d like to combat human trafficking and impact the lives of children and women who are sold into slavery in every part of the world.  Although I am not sure exactly in what capacity I will do that, whether through the legal system or a grassroots mission organization, through the Cross Cultural Studies program I am acquiring some of the skills I will need to engage with the tough issues.

So far my first year at Fuller has consisted of inspiring, thought-provoking, and challenging experiences both inside and outside the classroom.  Faculty members have exceeded my expectations--in personal relationships with Jesus Christ that are evident even in their teaching methods and excellence in scholarship.  School of Intercultural Studies course readings and subject matter have also helped to direct my thinking and develop a Christian response to the issues of human trafficking.  In classes I have considered the extent to which Christians and the church must take responsibility in social change, how Jesus himself dealt with the power structures of his day, and how the Church’s history informs our present action or inaction. 

One of the main reasons I chose Fuller is the School of Intercultural Studies’ emphasis on gaining insight into oneself and other cultures before actually going to the mission field long term.  The practicum where students spend a considerable amount of time ministering in another culture is vital to training.  My practicum this summer to Nairobi, Kenya was a great learning experience and taught me much about the challenges of mission work but also showed me that God is faithful at all times and in all places.  It helped confirm my desire and ability to enter into missions and showed me the areas that I need to work on in this next year. 

I also participated in the cohort program for first-year students which provided a great opportunity for spiritual support within the program.  Our group prayed together, spent time getting to know each other, and allowed each other to speak into our lives.  In a world where we do not live or work in a vacuum, it is imperative that those who follow Christ be able to work together and love one another.

My time at Fuller has proven to be not only one of preparation for ministry but ministry itself—to other students and the Fuller community.  By being involved in events like the Week of Prayer (where students prayed around the clock for a week) and student government, I am serving others right now.  It is truly a welcoming and life-altering place.  And although I’m far from my home in New York, I enjoy the diversity of cultures represented in LA, Pasadena’s artistic atmosphere, and the magnetism of the Fuller community itself.