Joshua Scott: Innovative Intercultural Impact

Published February 7, 2017

Sophomore Intercultural Studies major Joshua Scott is from Niagara Falls, New York.

“So often, when we think of cultures, we think of nationalities; however, cultures are groups of like-minded people. I wanted to pursue a path that would equip me to minister to people who do not feel comfortable with religion and possibly fear the tradition that is often paired with it.”

Equipped with his Intercultural Studies major coupled with a Business Administration minor, Scott aims to start a café in Los Angeles featuring a church ministry within it. “My hope is to create an environment where those who, for some reason or another, have been turned off to the idea of church and to create a warm setting where the love of Christ through the Body of Christ can be shown.”

Individualized Preparation

Engaging in classes at CSU, Scott came to realize that no person has the same mind. “Everyone is different, and everyone has their own stories,” he explains. “This program offers many electives providing the opportunity to focus on differing areas of ministry.”

“This program sets up people who are ready for ministry. With the multiple electives, it makes it very easy to have a minor on top of this program and provide you the opportunity to get the knowledge you specifically need. With the wise professors at this school and the edifying dorm community, I do not think it is possible to find a school so dedicated to the growth and activating of others.”

Beyond Academics

He’s experienced more than just academic training at CSU, explaining, “This program does not simply focus on providing information to memorize. It focuses on character development.”

World religions and dynamics of discipleship are two classes taught by Dr. Denis Wilhite. “I can honestly say that those two classes have changed my life,” says Scott. “Not only have I learned how to minister to those of different faiths, but I have learned the importance of ministering to people no matter their background and no matter their experiences. This includes believers and non-believers.”

To Scott, professors stand out as people who not only teach him how to pour into others, but people who also have poured into him. “They not only teach great values, but they live them out.” He’s grateful for the ways he’s been forced out of his comfort zone during his time at CSU, helping him to avoid complacency.