I managed to make it through college, seminary, and grad school with most of my prejudices intact. I won't overstate my bigotry: "I had gay friends," but I was the kind of person who would use that phrase when defending my prejudices.
What changed me was being a pastor. I was entrusted with the spiritual care of real live human beings.
I don't buy the whole "god thing", but for those who do, here's an interesting take on the issue of preaching the Word. If you believe, there's important information here.
