“Choosing to pursue an MDiv through Fuller’s Northwest campus has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’m at the beginning of my journey as a seminarian, but have already grown so much from this experience. I began taking classes in order to be a more responsible minister of the Gospel through the theological and biblical training Fuller provides; yet I could never have anticipated the ways God has used my studies here to bring about deep transformation in my own heart. Through lectures, assigned readings, and conversations with FNW faculty, staff and fellow students, I find myself constantly in awe of the God we serve and even more excited for the journey ahead.”

 -Ashley Moore, MDiv 

“My decision to study at Fuller Northwest was the culmination of several years of vocational discernment, a period of confused wrestling and prayer that began when I finished my undergraduate degree and continued through my years of parenting three young children who are now becoming teenagers. I knew I would not be the typical MDiv student, because I did not feel called to pastor a church in the “traditional sense”, and felt more drawn to one-on-one pastoral ministry, spiritual direction, work with a non-profit organization, or ministry through writing. Prone to over-analyzing my decisions to the point of paralysis, moving forward was not easy for me, and yet I experienced a deep sense of peace as I took that final step, began my classes, and wrapped up my first quarter. I have discovered that I am not the only MDiv student to begin my studies with “non-traditional pastoral goals” in mind and trust that my decision is ultimately about what God wants to do through my life, rather than a specific outcome that I need to explain to myself or others. For now I am simply grateful for the privilege of learning from students from so many different denominations and being challenged mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, though it has been a struggle to balance family responsibilities with my tendency to become overly absorbed in my studies. Beginning and finishing my first quarter has been a liberating, yet scary time of abandoning the anxieties that have prevented me from obeying God’s voice and trusting in His continued presence as I immerse myself in what He has to offer me during my years at Fuller.”

 -Stephanie Ramos, MDiv 

“Working with a church I helped plant in the South Sound in 2009, employed full-time with the Fred Meyer Company, a husband and father of five kiddos – of course I’ve got time for seminary! Yet here I am and I love it! Feeling called toward military chaplaincy to better serve the military and their families in the South Sound, Fuller presents the opportunity to pursue the M.Div. requirement for chaplaincy while still remaining in my local work. The best part is most of my classes are at an actual campus with real teachers and real students. It was totally unrealistic for me to pluck up my family and move so I could pursue a M.Div. and I was not happy with the online options out there. Fuller, with its multiple campuses, presents an opportunity for the education I need while serving the Lord full-time in local ministry. Currently I am in my second quarter, loving the journey and looking forward to the challenge!”

 -Michael Green, MDiv 

"This season has brought about many changes; a new city, a new job, and a new school. Within all the change, however, God's guidance has been immensely evident. I have been so blessed to experience classes which both challenge and enrich my own theological views, as well as make some amazing friends amidst all the studying! Of course the coursework can be difficult and there are the natural ups and downs of making so many changes at once, but attending Fuller has been such a rewarding and exciting opportunity. I'm so excited to see what God has in store for me next!"

 -Elyse Fairweather, MDiv 

"I was initially drawn to Fuller due to their commitment to an inclusive, inter-denominational education. The diversity of the student body encourages lively and fascinating class discussions that I look forward to each week. Fuller has created a dynamic commumnity that fosters many spiritual friendships and future Kingdom partnerships. I am confident that when I graduate, I will be fully equipped for effective vocational ministry."

 -Laura Terasaki, MDiv 

"During my first year at Fuller, I was surprised at how much I was growing spiritually.  I had heard that Seminary could be a spiritually dry season, but I have had quite the opposite experience!  My professors have challenged my theology, and they have done a superb job of further equipping me to enter the greater theological conversation which is taking place around us everyday.  My education at Fuller will serve me to learn more about life, God, and most importantly, life with God."

 -Mark Wagner, MA Theology and Ministry 

"I came to Fuller as a visiting student and now am intrigued by what they have to offer.  I am finishing my degree at North Park Theological Seminary and the Fuller Northwest Regional Campus was a great option for me to take a couple of courses through.  It was a gift to be received so well by staff, faculty and students, even as a visiting student.  In both the courses I was impressed with how much learning was encouraged by resources and opportunities outside the classroom as well as within."

 -Caenisha Warren, Visiting Student 

“After 18 years in corporate America it was time to follow God’s call and work towards my MDiv.  Going back to school seemed daunting and scary, but from the first moment I visited FNW and spoke with some of the staff and professors I knew it was the place for me.  Fuller is challenging my faith, reshaping my relationship with God and stretching me in ways I never thought possible.   But more than that, Fuller is providing fellowship in a faith community in unimaginable ways.  If you are looking to grow and deepen your faith in a vibrant and loving atmosphere, FNW is the place for you.” 

-Kevin Lee, MDiv 

“Coming to Fuller seemed like the natural next step for me after finishing my undergraduate degree. However, I was pretty nervous about what seminary would be like, specially coming in as a full time student who was working part time as well. Would I be able to handle the workload? It felt overwhelming at first but it wasn’t long before I fell into a rhythm and really began to dive into the depth of thought that was before me. Just when I thought I had it all figured out my ideas and beliefs were challenged and stretched. I can honestly say that after my first quarter at Fuller I am a different and more mature person who is on a life long pursuit of knowing Christ. And I am thankful to have such an incredible community of students and professors walking beside me on this journey.”

-Tim Pile, MAT 

“When God called me to seminary late last spring I wasn’t sure what to expect. I forged ahead though, and I have found the level of academic scholarship and personal care from my professors to be outstanding. I am enjoying the learning process, growing in my faith, and truly being prepared for something special. It can be difficult at times to balance high academic achievement with professional life. That’s a genuine consideration, especially as a small business owner, but I have found it to be well worth the risk, time and effort. I am truly excited about the rewards God has in store, and I would recommend Fuller to anyone exploring (or obeying) a call to seminary, or the desire to simply learn and grow.”

-Justin Kawabori, MDiv, 2009 Cohort 

“Since making a last-minute decision to attend FNW this year, I have been tremendously blessed by the professors and classmates I have connected with. My creative energies have found a welcome outlet, I am pleasantly challenged by the academics, (shh, don’t tell Charlie that I enjoy the pain of Church History!) and when the load feels heavy, there is always someone (staff and student alike) with whom to have coffee and pray. I have found the elder students, (not in age, but in NW experience) to be extremely supportive and encouraging, and I am grateful for discussions outside of class with students and professors who come from many different theological backgrounds. FNW challenges me to dig deep into my identity and gives me the resources to openly explore a variety of theological ideologies as I continue to craft my own. ”
 

-Trista Wynne, MDiv