Homeschool Testimonials

Ian Reilly ’22 (Aquinas Learning)

Ian graduated from Aquinas Learning hybrid homeschool in 2018 and went on to complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture at Benedictine College. He earned his Master’s Degree from Notre Dame’s School of Architecture and is now working full-time for an architectural firm in Washington, D.C. He recently married his high school sweetheart, who also attended Benedictine College.

The focus of community, faith and scholarship at Benedictine matches well with the Aquinas curriculum and teaching style.

Gianna Muggli ’25 (Kolbe Academy)

Gianna is a rising-senior at Benedictine College studying Chemical Engineering. She has attended Seton and other home study programs, including Kolbe Academy and Memoria Press.

“The community and faith aspect here is huge. That was so transformative; it transformed my spiritual life and helped me develop into a better person,” she said. “Being a homeschooling student who never had a traditional classroom setting before, it was really nice to know that my professors care about me not only as their student, but as a person. They want to help you and that’s what stands out to me at Benedictine. I’m very proud of my school.”

Gianna has excelled in the classroom, but also in the real world through several engineering internships.

“I was able to get several engineering internships early on, and they were always impressed with my level of knowledge,” Gianna said. “My education at Benedictine helped me in my internships as it made me stand out. I’m really grateful for my Benedictine education.”

Catie Nunes ’24 (Mother of Divine Grace School)

Catie Nunes came to Benedictine College from La Mirada, Calif. She says she was well-equipped on an academic and faith standpoint from her homeschooling through the Mother of Divine Grace School. When it came time to choose a college, she knew that Benedictine was going to be heavily favored. Through the curriculum of Mother of Divine Grace and the influence of her family, Catie learned the importance of faith in all aspects of her life. When she learned that Benedictine College was dedicated to Mary, had a strong Theology Department, and had a rich community life, Catie was ready to be a Raven.

“President Minnis talks about how Mary has chosen each of the students that come here, and I believe that,” Catie said. “Nothing happens by chance. I didn’t visit Benedictine College and I do think that it was because of Mary and God that I came here, and they drew me to this place.”

Catie felt well-equipped by the Mother of Divine Grace program as she began her college career and now that she has graduated from Benedictine, completing a degree in Theology, she is ready to bring more students to her alma mater. Catie recently accepted a position as an Admission Counselor for Benedictine College.

Renee Lataif ’24 (Seton Home Study)

Graduating from the Seton Home Study School program, Renee came to Benedictine ready to explore modern-day events through a faith-filled lens. She majored in Political Science and minored in Theology.

“The community of people at Benedictine really stood out to me,” she said. “I really wanted to be at a place where the faculty and staff wanted my success and to achieve success –not just material success, but spiritual.”

In looking back, she said that the transition from homeschool to Benedictine was uncomplicated and both institutions worked together nicely.

“Of all the places transition might be easiest, Benedictine is the place,” said Renee. “There is this warm, welcoming community of faith. The amazing thing about Benedictine is that you have all these resources for success no matter what your background is.”

Independent Home School – William Rioux ’24

Will completed degrees in Philosophy and English after completing an independent home study program which his parents designed for the family.

Once at Benedictine, Will met people of different cultures and backgrounds, learning the value of community.

“Being open to differences of opinion can liven your social circle and expand your understanding of the world,” Will said as he reflected on his time at Benedictine. “It’s challenging, but it’s a good challenge because it can help you grow as a person.”

During Will’s college transition, he noted the very fundamental communal aspects of the college and how it made the college’s environment unique.

“Being able to learn in that environment – I was really lucky,” Will said. “To grow spiritually as a person was something that Benedictine College definitely offered me.”