Fostering Faith and Flourishing: A Phenomenological Inquiry into the Lived Experiences of Non-Catholic Students in a Catholic University

Abstract

This study explores the lived experiences of eight non-Catholic graduating students at a Catholic university to understand how they navigate a faith-based academic setting. Utilizing a descriptive phenomenological approach and Lichtman’s recursive textual analysis of unstructured interviews, the research reveals that an inclusive environment—characterized by interfaith dialogue and a strong sense of community—fosters significant personal, spiritual, and academic growth. These findings demonstrate that education can transcend religious boundaries, offering a practical foundation for enhancing inclusivity policies, curriculum development, and student support services. Future research is encouraged to explore comparative perspectives, such as Catholic students in non-sectarian schools, alongside longitudinal and quantitative assessments of student development.