Is it better to go to theological school right after graduation or wait several years before applying?
That depends on the individual and your denomination’s requirements. Some college seniors have a strong sense of calling to ministry and feel ready to go directly on to theological education. Others may take a year or two away from study so they will have some experience in the “work world” that the church members come from. Still others may use that time to do a service or ministry-oriented internship or find a non-ordained position in a church setting to get experience or test their sense of call more fully. Many people entering seminary and theological school are “second career” students who have worked for a decade or more and now feel called to ministry. If you attend theological school directly after graduation, you can count on being in class with many people who are older than you are. Many discover that the interaction between generations makes for a rich educational experience.
