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University of Bedfordshire
Park Square
Luton
Bedfordshire
UK, LU1 3JU
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"I am now the Chaplaincy Warden at the University of Luton Chaplaincy."
Maria Chacon was a stranger far from home when she happened upon the University’s Chaplaincy one day – and the people there made her feel safe and welcome.
By the end of her one-year Masters degree, she wanted to give something back. She is now the warden at the Chaplaincy, giving a safe haven to other students, wherever they come from.
She said: “We want everyone to feel welcome, people of all faiths or no faith at all. They can come in for a cuppa and take a break from university life. As well as tea and a sympathetic ear, the chaplaincy offers prayers, Bible studies and programmes such as a monthly film night as an alternative to the Student Union offering or the pub.
“I help the chaplain to run things here, whatever needs doing. Recently we’ve been involved with the international students’ induction week and the Freshers’ Fayre, making students aware that we are here to help make their university experience easier.
“It was such a welcoming place for me when I was new, I really wanted to make it the same for other students, especially those from other countries who sometimes struggle to make sense of the culture here. Even British students can have the same sort of feelings, if they haven’t lived away from home before.”
Maria was born and grew up in Venezuela, but is a European citizen as her mother is French. She was educated in America and before coming to the UK to do her Masters degree, she worked for a charity in the US as a fundraiser.
“I would like to use my degree to get back into fundraising on a more international level in Europe when I feel I have done my time here,” she added.
Interview took place in 2003.
Apply» Faculties & Departments» Department of Language & Communication» Student Profiles» Maria Chacon: MA Intercultural Communication
