Seminarians often arrive at theological school with expectations for their experience there that do no match the reality they find. Classes may be confusing; community life may seem overwhelming; issues of spirituality may not be addressed as widely as they hoped; and field education may not prove to be as helpful as they anticipated. Sometimes students begin to view the seminary experience is sum or in its parts as being the enemy of their faith development and growth in discipleship. What needs adjusting in most such cases is not the theological education but the attitudes of the student.
"What to Expect in Seminary is a must-read for seminary students. In this pilgrim's progress of theological education, students of all ages and ethnic backgrounds will find wise counsel about the potential for positive spiritual formation in theological education as well as honest and sensitive discussion of various pitfalls. As Cetuk points out, spiritual formation is always part of the seminary experience, whether intentional or not. The issues is what kind of spiritual formation, and how are you responding?" -Janet F.Fishburn, Professor Emerita, The Theological School, Drew University, Madison, New Jersey
Abingdon Press,1988. ISBN 0-687-01728-9