This study offers insights into Indonesian theology students' perceptions of reading strategies, focusing on those who completed four semesters of English Reading classes. The 41 participants, surveyed at the end of their fourth semester, provided reflective insights into their experiences. Surprisingly, scanning and skimming emerged as their preferred techniques. These strategies, known for efficient information retrieval, became staples for handling extensive foreign academic content. These preferences indicate different approaches to adopting and adapting strategies in understanding English-language texts in their academic environment. Quantitative analysis revealed that confidence in reading English texts grew with each semester, especially within small study groups formed during the third and fourth semesters. Cultural and contextual factors influenced their reading strategy choices. This research informs educators and curriculum design in similar linguistic and academic contexts, optimizing pedagogical approaches to support effective reading techniques.