Katelyn Beaghan '20

What “wicked problem” did you study?

The imbalance between physicality and spirituality within the human being and silence in the Church concerning topics of the physical body, specifically nutrition.

Why IDS?

I chose the IDS major because the topic I am most passionate about is interdisciplinary. I knew I wanted to study what it meant to be a physical AND spiritual human, and this requires various perspectives and various disciplines. I also completed pre-dietetic courses within my IDS major that prepared me for entering into a Master's Program in Dietetics. 

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

I value the opportunity I had to study exactly what I feel like God is calling me to study. I loved the freedom to pick and choose the courses that best fit my "wicked problem", the opportunity to work closely with professors and other faculty members, and the one-on-one advising with Dr. Davis. The IDS program at Wheaton College is thorough and excellent.

What is your advice for someone who is considering the IDS major?

At first, I thought the IDS major was for people who didn't know what they wanted to study, however, it turns out that the IDS major is actually for people who know EXACTLY what they want to study. If you have a niche passion or calling and you can see how integrating two or three disciplines would contribute greatly to your studies, then IDS is for you! But be ready to be disciplined and work hard. 

What is your final project title?

The Embodied Christian Church: Vital Discussions of Physical and Spiritual Nourishment.

What is your final project abstract?

The increasing development of eating disorders and various other health conditions reveals the Wicked Problem of an imbalance in physicality and spirituality. Additionally, a lack in conversations concerning the physical body within Christian communities exposes the improper understanding of the Christian’s responsibility to value and care for the body. An integration of Applied Health Science and Biblical and Theological Studies informs this discussion of the human being as it relates to our intertwined physicality and spirituality. Created originally in perfect balance, these two realities were thrown off balance when sin entered the world. However, since Jesus, being both human and divine, has provided salvation for those who believe, the Church now has the responsibility to enter into God’s plan of restoration. The Christian Church must respond to the imbalance of humanity’s physicality and spirituality as a result of sin, by recognizing the value God has given the physical body and its need for intentional care, promoting education and implementation of proper nutrition, and encouraging discussion of physical wellbeing within the Church. Discussion and education are essential steps in behavioral change, and behavior and actions, coming from the heart, can be forms of worship toward God. Eating is a daily reminder of our need for physical nourishment, and Jesus, when he offered his body and blood for us to consume in the sacrament of the Eucharist, established eating as a reminder of our need for spiritual nourishment as well.