Before enrolling at Queens College of Theology, Stephen House found himself asking questions many people wrestle with at some point in life.
He was retired. Life had slowed down. And he was trying to make sense of where he had been, where he was going, and how his faith fit into the journey.
What began as a search for answers eventually led him to earn a PhD in Biblical Studies from Queens College of Theology and opened doors he never expected.
"I was trying to make sense of my life," Stephen recalls when asked what he was doing before enrolling at QCT.
For Stephen, returning to school wasn't about advancing a career or earning a promotion. It was a personal commitment to grow spiritually, challenge himself academically, and deepen his understanding of Scripture.
The affordability of the program and online format made QCT the right fit. The flexibility allowed him to pursue his study on his own schedule while remaining focused on what mattered most: learning.
Rather than seeing it as an obstacle, Stephen embraced it as an opportunity. The process of researching, writing, and meeting rigorous academic deadlines taught him persistence and sharpened skills that would continue serving him long after graduation.
"Working on my thesis and meeting the time frame imposed by QCT" became one of the defining experiences of his doctoral journey.
That experience paid dividends.
Today, Stephen remains active in ministry through apologetics and writing. Since graduating, he has published more than half a dozen books, applying the research and writing skills he developed during his studies. While many graduates measure success by promotions or career changes, Stephen measures it differently.
His greatest accomplishment has been continuing to serve others through scholarship while deepening his relationship with God.
In fact, when asked how QCT impacted his life, his answer was simple and heartfelt:
"QCT has improved my relationship with the Lord."
Academically, the program helped him learn how to communicate ideas to people from diverse backgrounds. Spiritually, it strengthened his faith. Personally, it taught him how to persevere when challenges seemed overwhelming.
When reflecting on his experience, Stephen says one of QCT's greatest strengths is the way faculty and mentors help students continue progressing toward their goals. That encouragement helped him keep moving forward and complete a journey that has continued to bear fruit years after graduation.
Dr. House's story serves as a reminder that education isn't only about preparing for a profession. Sometimes it's about discovering a deeper purpose.
And for anyone considering taking the next step in their own educational journey, Stephen offers just two words:
Please note: The student shown in the featured image is not Dr. Stephen House. At the time of this publication, Dr. House did not provide an image for the article.