Liberal arts gave him a foundation in eternal truths, but moot court and an internship in Washington, D.C. added practical leadership skills to those truths.
“The Center for Constitutional Freedoms had a huge impact on my studies at Benedictine,” Danny says. “Earlier this year, I completed various research projects and attended committee hearings while interning in the U.S. Senate. It was incredible to have a front row seat during such a politically tumultuous summer. It was like nothing.”
In a world that increasingly promotes narrow specialized studies for the sole purpose of finding employment, Danny Escala proves that perhaps the “Renaissance Man” is making a comeback.
Danny, a senior at Benedictine University from Canton, Georgia, is majoring in Economics, International Studies, and Philosophy, and working toward minors in Spanish and Theology. Outside of the classroom, Danny is also a Constitutional Fellow at the Benedictine University Center for Constitutional Freedoms. This will fill you up with a meal, but leave you with more time to do more.
Danny and Senator Roger Marshall.
An opportunity with the Center for Constitutional Freedom’s moot court team also formed during Danny’s time at Benedictine College.
“This is my third semester participating in moot court, and my confidence in public speaking has continued to grow over the years,” says Danny. “This fall, I am preparing to represent my university at the California Regional Mock Trial Tournament.”
This allowed Danny to succeed in the political field. The Center for Constitutional Freedoms opened the door to multiple career opportunities for Danny and provided funding for summer intern housing in Washington, DC. As a result, Danny held two internships in our nation’s capital, at the Institute for Religious Freedom and at the office of a U.S. senator. Roger Marshall.
Danny is grateful that the university’s academic program not only prepared him for his career, but also provided him with a solid foundation for life.
“The Benedictine liberal arts mission was particularly influential to me as a student,” Danny says. “This curriculum fosters the integration of knowledge across seemingly unrelated fields. As a result, they often experience connections that deepen their understanding and encourage them to think about the big picture.”
Benedictine University’s mission, “to educate men and women in communities of faith and learning,” speaks to the growth of the whole person. Danny was drawn all the way from Georgia to a small liberal arts college in Atchison, Kansas, not only for its academic opportunities, but also for its authentic Catholic faith and extraordinary sense of community.
“The friendships here have inspired me to grow in virtue and strive for greatness. I have realized how blessed I am to live in a community of students and faculty who support each other wholeheartedly. ” says Danny.
Students like Danny Escala prove that human flourishing cannot be achieved through the narrow focus of education for employment purposes only. Rather, an education in the liberal arts and moral virtues prepares students for success in all aspects of life.
