Jared Smith '20

What “wicked problem” did you study?

The miscommunication among the adherents of the three Abrahamic faiths.

Why IDS?

I chose the IDS major because I'm fascinated by the way in which different fields of knowledge interact and communicate with one another, especially in the arts.

What do you value about the IDS program at Wheaton College?

IDS has brought me closer to faculty members in all three of my integrated disciplines as well as the amazing professors in the IDS program!

What would you say to someone who is considering the IDS major?

IDS changed my life. I can't explain how incredible it feels to be working on a project I know I'll be proud of for the rest of my life.

What is your final project title?

Ishmael: A Heavy Metal Dialogue Among the Three Abrahamic Faiths.

What is your final project abstract?

My final project has been to write, produce, and record a heavy metal album examining the theological discussion between Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, with special focus on the story of Isaac and Ishmael. The album contains eleven songs in total that deal with everything from Abraham's sacrificial act to the modern Middle East crisis.