Master of Theological Studies

Student Profiles

Liz O'Donnell Gandolfo
MTS in Systematic Theology, Graduating Spring 2006

Schools attended and degrees attained before MTS
B.A., 1999, Saint Joseph’s University, Theology major, English minor

What attracted you to the MTS program
I was attracted to the MTS program primarily because of the quality of the faculty.  I knew that there are scholars in the Theology Department at Notre Dame’s who are highly respected in the discipline, whose areas of expertise match my interest in feminist, liberation and political theologies, and who are not only great thinkers but people of faith who are committed to the life of the church and the creation of a better world.  Also, the mystique of Notre Dame really draws you in – and I don’t mean the athletic mystique.  I couldn’t resist the opportunity to study theology at an institution which has such a esteemed place in North American Catholicism.

The greatest strengths of the MTS program
I already mentioned the quality of the faculty that attracted me to ND.  Once I got here I realized that the faculty members are not only great scholars, but great teachers and mentors as well.  I don’t just mean that they can just give riveting lectures or lead inspirational discussions, which they certainly can and do.  I mean that they are really available to students and concerned for our well-being and growth as scholars, as believers, and as human persons.

Another strength lies in the program’s curriculum.  You take courses outside your area of concentration that you might not otherwise take, but which are fundamental to getting a good background in the overall Christian tradition and the discipline of theology as a whole.  At the same time, you are gaining depth and breadth in your own area, and your interests can be informed and enriched by what you learn in other classes.  It’s a great system for forming whole and healthy scholars.

I could keep going on and on, but I will list just one more strength: my fellow students. They are brilliant, fun, and funny.  They are very serious about academics, but they don’t take themselves too seriously.  We have such a great community here – we enjoy each other’s company in class and socially, we support one another, and we grow together in dialogue as we seek understanding of our faith.

Your greatest challenges since coming to the MTS Program
My greatest challenge has been my long-distance marriage.  My husband works on the East Coast and we have been apart for most of my time here at ND.  This has been really difficult for both of us, but we have made it work and the sacrifice will be worth it in the end.  Also, the community of students I mentioned above provides a good support network.  There are others who are going through the same thing and can sympathize and still others who are always willing to help me out when I need it.

Employment opportunities have you pursued while in the program
I have had the opportunity to be a Teaching Assistant for both fall semesters of my time in the program, which has been a great experience.  I have also been able to get a job tutoring student athletes through the Office of Academic Services for Student Athletes.

Your housing situation
I rent a house about 2 miles from campus.  It’s quite large and the price is very reasonable – the cost of living here in South Bend is quite comfortable, even for a grad student.  I’ve been really happy with the whole arrangement.

Other thoughts that you have about South Bend, ND, the program
South Bend doesn’t have the reputation of being the most exciting place in the world, but it’s really a charming little town and there are things to do to keep yourself entertained.  In fact there is ALWAYS something to do on campus – from films to plays to lectures, poetry, art, concerts, etc.  And there is always FOOTBALL in the fall, which is an awesome experience, even if you are not a fan of the sport.  The whole Notre Dame experience has been amazing and I wouldn’t trade my two years here for anything.