New Student Ajay’s Formative Beginnings at EAST

 

How does one’s journey to apply for studies at East Asia School of Theology (EAST) and the initial immersion experience be truly formative? Mr Ajay Daram, a new EAST student from India studying Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies (MAICS), shares his missional journey to and recent experiences at EAST.

Coming to EAST to pursue the Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies (MAICS) has been a significant step in my journey of discerning God’s call to serve His mission in Asia. Over time, I became increasingly aware that effective Christian witness in today’s world requires more than passion alone; it requires deep theological grounding, cultural sensitivity, and spiritual formation. I sensed a need to be trained in a community that takes both the gospel and the Asian context seriously. EAST stood out as a place committed to forming servant-leaders for God’s mission, and this vision resonated deeply with my own sense of calling.

The journey toward EAST was itself formative. Throughout my application process, EAST played a meaningful role by offering guidance, encouragement, and personal attention. Rather than experiencing the process as merely procedural, I encountered a community that genuinely cared about my calling and preparation. Mrs Boon Aitee, of EAST’s Admissions Office, patiently walked me through the requirements and helped provide guidelines on how to approach churches and organizations. She also provided clarity and support along the way. As an international student navigating multiple transitions, this relational approach was especially significant. It reflected EAST’s missional ethos, valuing people, relationships, and discernment as part of God’s work, even before formal studies begin.

One of the most impactful experiences before starting the MAICS programme was the EAST Mentoring Group (MG) Retreat. I deeply appreciated how EAST intentionally created space for rest, reflectiohttp://at-2025/n, and community-building. In this season, there is anxiety, and the retreat allowed me to slow down and remember that mission flows first from being rooted in Christ. It also gave me time to know fellow students from diverse cultures, nations, and ministry backgrounds. These early interactions embodied the intercultural nature of EAST and offered a glimpse of the global body of Christ learning and growing together.

The retreat also provided an important opportunity for spiritual realignment. Before engaging in the academic and practical demands of intercultural studies, I was invited to reflect on God’s calling, examine my motives, and renew my dependence on Him. This time of prayer and reflection helped me approach my studies not merely as an academic pursuit, but as preparation for faithful participation in God’s mission.

Overall, I am glad that my decision to come to EAST is meaningful. I am experiencing intentional care, missional vision, and a strong sense of community. From the supportive application process to the spiritually grounding retreat experience, EAST has helped me begin my MAICS journey with gratitude, clarity, and renewed commitment to God’s mission in Asia. I am thankful to be part of a learning community that seeks to form Christlike servant-leaders for the Church and the world, and I look forward to how God will continue shaping me during my time at EAST.

Please contact the Admissions Office at admissions [at] east.edu.sg for more information about studying  at EAST with a program of your choice.