"Connecting the dots between Los Alamos, N.M., religion courses at ACU, and the study of early church history at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., might sound challenging to even the best puzzle-solvers.
I learned not only that research and teaching can be a form of ministry, but also that it is a career that suits my interests and talents.
For a quick answer, just talk to Tera Harmon. Tera grew up in Los Alamos, participated in ACU's Junior Scholars between her junior and senior years in high school, got hooked on ACU and enrolled as a freshman.
ACU alumni and the reputation of the Department of Bible, Missions and Ministry convinced Tera that the Abilene school was the place for her.
'Between the great experience I had at Junior Scholars and the reputation of the Bible department, my decision was easy,' Tera said.
From there, it didn't get easier, but it definitely got interesting, challenging and rewarding. Tera earned an undergraduate degree in biblical text from ACU in 2003 and a master of divinity degree in 2007.
Obviously, Tera is a scholar, and her desire to continue learning led her to Washington, D.C., and the campus of The Catholic University of America where she is working on a doctorate in early church history. She has just completed her coursework.
The variety of classes at ACU gave Tera a broad foundation as a starting point. From there, she was able to focus on her main interest. But it was more than just coursework that prepared her for such a rigorous academic program in Washington.
'One of the most significant ways ACU helped to prepare me for my doctoral work,' she said, 'was through various mentors who encouraged me and helped me to take the steps necessary in order to pursue a Ph.D.'
Tera even credits the positive experiences she had at ACU for guiding her into the world of academia.
'I learned, through classes and dedicated teachers, not only that research and teaching can be a form of ministry,' she said, 'but also that it is a career that suits my interests and talents.'"
