Spirituality, meaning and work among college students: A multi-case study of collegiate programs for the theological exploration of vocation

• Main Author: Moretto, Kristin Nicole
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: English
• Published: ProQuest Dissertations & Theses 01.01.2011
• Subjects: Career and technical education; Career Choice; Career Development; Career Planning; Case studies; College students; Educational Environment; Higher education; Higher Education Administration; Literature Reviews; Spirituality; Theology; Vocational education; Vocational schools
• ISBN: 9781124847566; 1124847561

Developing purpose and preparing for a career are significant developmental processes that students experience in college (Chickering & Reisser, 1993). Most students wrestle with questions of meaning and purpose in college, and many struggle with career indecision (Parks, 2000; Connor, 2008; Osipow, 1999). Recent studies show that spirituality, faith and religion play important roles in the lives of many students (HERI, 2004–2005). Current polls show that job satisfaction among workers in the United States is at an all time low (The Conference Board, 2010). Helping students to make connections between their beliefs and values (religious, spiritual or otherwise) and their vocational choices may set them up for a more fulfilling, stable career and a happier life. The purpose of this research was to examine Programs for the Theological Exploration of Vocation (PTEV), designed to help students consider how personal values, spirituality and religious faith intersect with vocational choices and plans for college students. Four programs at four different liberal arts colleges or universities were included in this original qualitative case study. Data were collected through document analysis and interviews during campus visits with PTEV staff, faculty, and students at all four institutions. Forty total interviews were included in the data analysis. Research questions were designed to uncover the methods of PTEV programs, as well as the meaning and impact on students. The goal of this research was to discover how participation in PTEV programs impacted students' identity, values, and future vocational plans. An additional goal was to gain insight on how secular institutions can help students make career choices that are in alignment with their beliefs and values in order to prepare them for a fulfilling career. This study produced findings that provide insight into the impact of these programs and the process of vocational discernment for PTEV students. A visual representation of the vocational discernment process for students in PTEV programs, which can be used as a means to guide students in the process of vocational discernment, is also presented. Exploring vocation and calling in the context of spirituality and community, gaining exposure to experiences that shed light on future career options, along with reflection and discussion were helpful to PTEV students who were on a journey of vocational discernment. Exploration of vocation and calling, in and out-of-class experiences, facilitated by reflection and discussion in a community and spiritual context lead to growth in self awareness (being) and knowledge of values (meaning) which, in turn, produced a greater sense of purpose and knowledge of future plans (doing) in most PTEV students.