Furman University

I spent two years (2000 to 2002) at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina. Founded in 1826, Furman is recognized as one of the top liberal arts schools in the country and one of the most beautiful college campuses in the world.

I enjoy visiting Furman because I have many vivid and happy memories from the time I spent there. Along with the demanding academics, life was simple and carefree. I made great friends I still see and keep in touch with today.

The professors and ethos of the university made me question many things. Furman taught me how to ask questions and think critically without turning into a skeptic. It helped me develop more into a man of character who is loyal and faithful to his values and ideals.

This interior search Furman instigated helped me find my calling and I resolved to follow Christ. I always think Furman did in two years for me what it often does for its students in four, so I was ready to go. I became a seminarian and transferred out of Furman to begin my philosophy studies. Leaving Furman was a very difficult decision, but it was definitely the correct one.

When I was considering leaving Furman, I went to see my academic advisor. I had met her for the first time when I visited Furman in high school and we had plans to work together on some history projects my junior year. I figured if anyone at Furman wanted me to stay, it would be her. When I told her what I was considering, her answer caught me completely off guard. I knew it was a sign. She said, “Pablo, we need good priests, go.” I didn’t even know she was Catholic until that moment. It was such a great surprise when at my ordination, I saw her and her husband sitting with my family on the first pew at the cathedral.

Furman is an excellent university and I will always be proud to have attended there. If you are ever in Greenville, make sure you visit the Furman campus. You will not regret it!

The Mall

Furman Hall

The Lake and the Belltower

The Rose Garden

Roses by the dinning hall

The Welcome Center

Poteat Hall, my dorm both years