Seth Kreeger is a PhD candidate at Marquette University and was the recipient of a Fulbright Scholarship to Belgium for the 2023-2024 academic year. While in Belgium he conducted his research at KU Leuven into the Arabic philosophical background of the 13th century Medieval Latin West. His work is especially focused on the metaphysical thought of Thomas Aquinas and William of Auvergne, as well as their use of Ibn Sina (Avicenna). Seth earned his MA from the Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology in Berkeley, California in 2018 and his BA from Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan in 2016.
Q: “Describe your grant project.”
I came to KU Leuven to do research on the Arabic influences on the 13th century Parisian philosophical context. My work especially pertained to the influence of Ibn Sina on William of Auvergne and Thomas Aquinas.
Q: “What inspired you to apply to the Fulbright Program in Belgium?”
KU Leuven is one of the top research universities in the world and I already had a number of connections there – mainly from international conferences and KUL-Marquette team taught courses. I am also a PhD student at KUL and was required to spend a period of time there.
Q: “What have you accomplished during your time in Belgium? What can you tell us about the initial outcomes of your research?”
I presented my work at a conference, and attended a number of other conferences. I had an article accepted for publication and published a book review. I also completed drafts of 4/6 dissertation chapters.
In regards to outcomes, I have discovered that much of Thomas Aquinas’ metaphysical thought is pre-contained in his predecessor William of Auvergne.
Q: “In what ways have you engaged with your host community in Belgium?”
We had two pairs of “couple friends” who we saw regularly. My wife and I also regularly attended Mass at St. Quinten’s Church. Being engaged with the local Catholic community was a big part of our lives here. It was a unique blend of familiar and new. I also was really able to engage with the scholarly community at KUL.
Q: “Can you tell us the story of a particular memorable moment(s) from your time in Belgium?”
A real highlight for us was the birth of our first child at Heilig Hart in Leuven. It was a lot, but it was also really amazing.
A second highlight for me was taking a WWI tour at Ypres. A very sobering experience, especially as we could still see the scars on the land from the shells, saw the monuments to the first gas attacks of the war, and saw so many unidentified graves.
Q: “Has Belgium been what you expected? In what ways has life in Belgium surprised you, either for its similarities to or differences from your own culture?”
I really don’t know what I expected. It has been a challenge, but it has also been amazing. And while I am looking forward to going home, I know I am going to miss Belgium a lot and I am going to remember it very fondly. It has certainly shaped me as it has given me such a depth of experience that it is difficult to put into words. Also, Belgium is comfortable now, I feel like I have finally gotten used to it.
Q: “What has it been like to bring family members with you to Belgium? What has the experience been like for them?”
They loved it. Having my wife here with me was a great excuse to finally get other family members to Europe. My dad told me “he would have a hard time leaving Belgium, if he were us.” And my wife’s family came twice – once for Christmas and the other for Easter.
Q:”What has been your favorite “discovery” in Belgium?”
The city of Bruges. I am 100% team Bruges. Definitely my favorite city. Great during the week but too crowded on the weekends. Although, I really enjoyed a day trip to Waterloo as well.
Q: “What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying to the Fulbright Program of Belgium?”
Be patient. But also relax, it will go quickly. Also, have courage for the weather – those really dark and rainy winters are a little rough.