Radford Lathan
Class of 2007
Radford Lathan was born in Harrisburg, PA. By the age of fourteen, she had already decided to be a US ambassador to the UN when she grew up. “You not only get to entertain important people,” says the twenty-year-old, “but you also have the opportunity to save the world.” And as she enters her senior year as a double major in Religion and International Relations, Radford is closer than ever to achieving her goal.
How has majoring in Religion been for you?
“I just fell in love with the theoretical concepts and the different traditions. And the professors here are really great. It’s a small program and I’ve never had a problem talking to a professor. If you’re circling around an idea for a research topic or a paper but you haven’t pinpointed it, they will sit with you and say, ‘Well you might try this approach or read this book.’ They’re so helpful. I’ve had nothing but positive experiences.”
What have you found valuable about the major?
How will your religious studies support your career goals?
“The world is full of religious conflict now, especially in the Middle East. There’s also this misunderstanding of Islam in America and people need to know more, be more aware. Taking courses in Islam has provided me with background knowledge that has direct links to law and politics. This knowledge will also help me better respect other people’s religious beliefs—an important skill as I work towards becoming an ambassador.”
What is it about your Religious classes that you love so much?
“I love the perspective. I love coming into a Religion class not knowing anything and leaving somewhat enlightened. And if the subject comes up later in a debate, I can hold my own. I love learning about different cultural traditions—like the veil in a wedding. I love learning about architecture in Spain and about the relationships between Jews and Muslims and about political rules. And I love the fact that a religion major encompasses so many things. I don’t think there’s anything better. I highly recommend it.”
