Postgraduate Viewpoint!

Here are 2 postgraduates from the SMCB Graduation Batch of 2021 who were able to balance their existing hectic schedules while pursuing an additional degree. Their responses could be just the motivation that you are looking for!

Fr Jilson Tom CSC : MS Psychology from Divine Mercy University

What was your motivation to take up psychology?

Soon after my ordination, I left my hometown to serve the indigenous people in the Northeast of India as a missionary priest. The Northeast is dynamic with 219 tribes and as many dialects across seven tiny states. Primitive as they are, they marry as early as fifteen. Many of these marriages break after their first child. Re-marriage is a common practice, and so, we have several children in our schools whose parents are absent. In most cases, their parents enter new marriages, and the responsibilities are vested on grandparents. During my thirteen years of experience as school principal, handling these kids was the most challenging responsibility. This situation motivated me to study MS Psychology.

How has pursuing psychology influenced you on a spiritual level?

The degree program, offered by Divine Mercy University is anchored on the Catholic Christian view of the person which integrates Catholic teachings and positive psychology. Apart from improving my knowledge base, the program also helped me introspect into my past life and ministry as a Catholic priest. These introspections were transformative as they challenged my perspectives, attitudes, and leadership styles. It helped me prepare for future ministry with new hopes and ministerial commitments. The Catholic-Christian perspective highlighted throughout the program formed a foundation for the proper perspective based on human dignity. It opened my eyes to see and my heart to understand the importance of human relationships and families’ positive contributions towards an individual’s flourishing. Understanding how psychological suffering hinders human flourishing, heightened my desire to assist Catholic Families to respond to God’s call to flourish individually, as a family, and community.

Biya Paul : MBA from Lasell University

How do you feel about completing your MBA?

I am very grateful for being able to complete my Masters while maintaining a full-time work schedule. I could not have done it without the support and encouragement from my family, friends and coworkers. I am extremely thankful to my employer who paid the full tuition. Above all, I thank God almighty for making the impossible, possible.

Any words of encouragement to those aspiring to pursue a higher degree while juggling home and work responsibilities?

I am not a person who likes to give advice to others, but here are few things I have learned over time. Never limit yourself to one plan, one action, and one goal. Sometimes the best things in life are not planned. Never let go of an opportunity to move to the next level of your career. I was able to manage the schedule because I took things slow. I was taking one course per quarter, and it took me 2 years to complete the degree. Currently I am finishing up an internship with Marquis Companies to be a licensed nursing home administrator(LNHA).