The Search that Led Me to Wheaton College

The Search that Led Me to Wheaton College

While completing my graduate studies in counseling psychology, I had a clear desire in my heart: to find a doctoral program that would allow me to integrate spirituality, theology, and psychology both theoretically and practically.

My academic journey began with a Bachelor in Religious Studies (BA), driven by the desire to serve both in academia and in my faith community. I later completed a Master in Religious Education (MA) while serving as a Christian education teacher at a private school. Later on, I decided to pursue a Master in Counseling Psychology (MS) with the goal of achieving a theoretical and practical integration between both disciplines.

However, throughout my training and experience, I became aware of the complexities involved in navigating these spaces and sustaining a deep dialogue between the two areas. This realization sparked in me an even clearer desire: to pursue a doctoral degree that could truly achieve this integration in a rigorous and coherent way.

It was in this context that, some time later, I had the opportunity to speak with my friend and professor, Dr. Jules Martínez, a Puerto Rican theologian, who recommended Wheaton College. He told me about its APA-accredited doctoral program in clinical psychology, which integrates theology, spirituality, and psychology. From the very first moment, I was fascinated.

First Encounter with Wheaton

I continued researching the university and, as I explored its academic offerings, I confirmed that it was exactly what I had been looking for. I decided to visit the campus with my wife, Carolyne. We personally met the admissions team, who, with great kindness and diligence, gave us a tour of the campus and shared about the vision, the program, and student life.

We were impressed to see a university culture that fosters service, cultivates humility and faith, and at the same time maintains a high academic standard. Later, I had meetings with admissions counselors, the director of admissions, professors, and the chair of the psychology department, Dr. Ben Pyykkonen.

The Application Process

After a period of prayer, reflection, and preparation, we decided to apply with faith in action. The process was intense: from studying for and taking the GRE, completing the English as a Second Language exam, writing essays and a research paper, to participating in interviews.

This was one of the most important decisions of my life, as it meant moving from Puerto Rico to the United States. It was an adventure filled with emotions, learning, and personal and professional growth.

The Answer to a Prayer

The wait for the admissions committee’s decision was long, but it was worth it. The day I received the acceptance letter to the Clinical Psychology Program, I experienced a mix of joy, relief, and gratitude. I felt that God was opening a door to continue the calling He had placed in my heart and in my wife’s.

Today, we continue walking in faith, trusting that each step brings us closer to the purpose for which we have been called.