The Benefits of a Jesuit Education: Shaping Leaders with Purpose
When considering Jesuit education, academic rigor is just scratching the surface of the many layers and benefits of educating oneself in the Jesuit philosophy. Rooted in the principles of Ignatian spirituality, it prepares students not just for careers but for life. This style of education sparks a life committed to service, leadership, and social justice. By focusing on the development of the whole person--mind, body, and spirit--Gonzaga's Jesuit tradition empowers students to think critically and engage with the world in ways that leave a lasting impact.
Preparing for Life, Not Just a Career
What better way to understand the benefits than to hear directly from graduates of Gonzaga University. Alumna Grace McElligott captures the essence of a Jesuit education when she says, “A Jesuit education prepares you for life, not just a career. Gonzaga’s approach to educating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—equips students with critical thinking skills and ethical formation, developing servant leaders inspired by faith that does justice.” At Gonzaga, education is seen as a journey toward personal growth and a strong moral compass. It encourages students to engage deeply with the world around them—not simply to secure a job, but to understand how they can make a positive impact. The skills students acquire at Gonzaga are designed to move deeper past the expectations of a professional career. There is an intention to foster individuals who will lead with integrity, serve others, and champion justice.
Developing the Whole Person: Cura Personalis
One of the cornerstones of Jesuit education is the idea of cura personalis, or "care for the whole person." This philosophy shapes how students are taught, cared for, and encouraged to grow as people. As Senior Sydney Grady reflects, “I deeply value a Jesuit education through its focus on developing the whole person through cura personalis, which emphasizes growth of the body, mind, and spirit. This is so important during college, when so many of us are figuring out who we are and how we want to show up in the world.”
Cura personalis showcases the immense value and impact Jesuit education can give students in preparation to have more than a career in the world. At Gonzaga, this holistic approach to education is woven into every facet of student life. The result is a well-rounded individual ready to navigate a complex life with compassion, confidence, and leadership. This all contributes to learning how to navigate balance through education. Balance is one of the most important lessons in a collegiate setting and is a necessity for a life of happiness and fulfillment.
Purposeful Learning and Societal Impact
Another key feature of Jesuit education is its emphasis on social justice. Being people for and with others. Gonzaga students are taught to view their education not as an end, but as a means to contribute to the common good for a lifetime. Inspiring intellectual curiosity to become a lifelong learner. Professor John Collett emphasizes this in his own experience, stating, “One aspect of a Jesuit education that I value is that we are people for others... We are studying a topic and considering how it applies beyond just ourselves but to creating a better society.” There is an iconic statue on Gonzaga’s campus in the front of College Hall showing St. Ignatius looking down into a pool of water as he is walking forward through it. This statue hints at the idea of “Contemplatives in Action,” showcasing the importance of reflection in Jesuit philosophy, but also taking action.
Leadership with a Focus on Service
For many Gonzaga students, the focus on service and leadership shapes their aspirations and career paths. As GSBA President Maddie Ediger explains, “Jesuit education has brought purpose to my college degree. Each subject I study or class I take asks the question, ‘How are you going to use this to serve others?’ and that is something I hope to hold onto far into my post-grad life.” This constant call to consider how one can serve others fosters a unique sense of purpose. Gonzaga students are encouraged to approach every opportunity with an eye toward service, whether through formal leadership positions, community initiatives, or even in their everyday interactions. Gonzaga's emphasis on service leadership is not just about doing good in the world, but also about developing the skills needed to lead with integrity.
Transforming Lives
The benefits of a Jesuit education at Gonzaga University go far beyond preparing students for a specific career or field. It is a summation of multiple experiences inside and outside of the classroom that shapes individuals into ethical and compassionate leaders who are deeply committed to serving others.