<p>I just visited Boston College, and it seemed to be a very religious school with a focus on the jesuit ideals and just religion in general (more than half of the tour guides/students there to provide answers during the info session had either a theology major or a minor in peace/religious studies). I was wondering, is it easy to be an atheist (or non-religious) at the school, or does religion play a major role/factor in the school and social life?</p>
<p>Thanks.</p>
<p>I am a junior at BC and an atheist, and most of the time I forget that BC is a religiously-affiliated school. Religion has not played a role at all for me here, but it is something that students can pursue if they feel so inclined. </p>
<p>Honestly, I can’t stress enough that it is not a huge part of social or academic life here! It always amazes me when people seem surprised when I say this. There is a theology requirement for the Core, which I fulfilled through the Honors Program, but there are many interesting ways to fulfill this outside of the Catholic scope, through classes focusing on Buddhism, Islam, and other religions, or through the Perspectives route.</p>
<p>In all honesty, if you are very religious, it is almost seen as being ‘odd’. Although over half of students are Catholic, I hardly know anyone that goes to mass on even a semi-regular basis.</p>
<p>I am an atheist, but I definitely understand and appreciate the Jesuit values of the school. The Jesuits could care less if you are Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, Jewish, Atheist, etc. What is important in their ideals is the value and empowerment of education, and becoming a man or woman for others. BC has provided me with incredible opportunities here in Chestnut Hill and abroad, and for that, I am grateful. </p>
<p>Hope this helps.</p>