By In a world where it’s easy to walk past those in need without a second thought, Andrew Devine chooses to engage with kindness and respect.
Friends who walk with Andrew Devine have learned not to be in a hurry. If Andrew sees a homeless person, he’s apt to stop and say hello.
“I just ask them how they’re doing, what their name is,” says Devine.
His willingness to stop, ask someone’s name, and acknowledge their humanity reflects his belief in the dignity of every person. Rather than seeing these individuals as strangers, he treats them as equals,
That’s how Andrew lives his faith – not just in words, but in small, everyday acts of compassion.
Devine has divided his time at Carroll between Corette Library, All Saints Chapel and Nelson Stadium.
He will graduate in December with a degree in philosophy. He’s pondering the priesthood as his calling. Andrew served as captain of the football team while earning academic All-Conference honors. He was drawn to philosophy because of its big, existential questions: Why are we here? What is a good life? Does God exist? Through his studies, he has honed his ability to think critically, articulate complex ideas, and engage with differing viewpoints.
“Philosophy has taught me that everyone has reasons for what they believe,” he explains. “Before we dismiss their beliefs, we need to engage with them.”
Beyond the field, Andrew is deeply committed to his faith.
A person of deep faith, Andrew also servinges as a peer minister, guiding fellow students on their spiritual journeys.
“I love Jesus, and I’ve experienced His love,” he says. “I want to share that with other people.”
His work in ministry has reinforced his belief in the transformative power of faith, especially in unexpected places.
“God goes after the people we least expect," he reflects. “There have been times when I thought someone wouldn’t be interested in faith, but then they’d come to me with curiosity, asking about Mass or small groups.”
His passion for faith has led him to seriously consider the priesthood, an idea that first crossed his mind in middle school. However, he remains in discernment, weighing his call to ministry against other possible paths.
“I just felt so alive leading small groups and talking to people about Jesus," he shares. “Whether that’s as a priest or a layperson, I want to do that for the rest of my life.”
His faith lights up all parts of his life, including as captain of the football team.
“I just try to help my teammates be better men and let them push me to be a better man,” he explains. Football, to him, is more than just a sport; it’s a vehicle for personal growth and an opportunity to glorify God through teamwork and perseverance.
For Andrew, leadership is a natural role —one he attributes largely to his father, who owns a State Farm agency and has been a guiding force in his life.
“He’s the best leader I know,” Andrew says. “He believes in people, helps them believe in themselves, and pushes them to reach their potential.”
His friendships at Carroll have also played a crucial role in shaping him.
“If not for my friends, I wouldn’t be the man I am today,” he says. “They call me out on my flaws, push me to be better, and help me grow.”
His advice to freshmen reflects that value.
“Keep your door open, get out of your room, and don’t be afraid to do uncomfortable things. The memories you make will always be worth it.”
When his time at Carroll comes to an end, perhaps Andrew will blend his faith with his love of philosophy by choosing a career where he can help others. He may take more time to ponder the priesthood, or he may return to Alaska to work alongside his father.
Last year, Devine went on a service trip to Denver, a transformative experience.
“The real poverty among the homeless isn’t just a lack of food or shelter – it’s a poverty of relationships,” He says.
That realization changed the way he interacts with people, even in simple moments, like making eye contact with a cashier and acknowledging their humanity. This intellectual depth strengthens his faith rather than challenging it.
“God gave us minds to know him,” he says. “Even thinking can be a form of prayer.”
His studies have equipped him not only for all paths requiring deep thought and meaningful conversation.
With one chapter ending, Andrew stands at a crossroads. He is embracing the uncertainty with characteristic faith.
“God wants us to be great,” he says. “And whatever I do, I want to do it in a way that glorifies him.”
