What role did the affordability of Grove City College play in your college decision making process?
The affordability of Grove City College played a significant role in my decision-making process. I really respect the College’s approach: Grove City College refuses to upcharge everyone and then hand out discounts via a superfluous number of scholarships. Rather, everyone gets a fair price to begin with. It’s a fair and honest way to do things.
What are some of the ways you have been spiritually engaged while at Grove City College?
One important way to be spiritually engaged at Grove City College is by taking the opportunity to see Christian scholars and speakers give lectures. I recently attended a talk given by Dr. Tim O’Connor, who is both a distinguished philosopher and a devoted Christian. In his lecture, Dr. O’Connor gave some very helpful insights into the complementary roles of faith and reason in the Christian life. Additionally, all-campus worship is a major highlight at Grove City College. The ability to come together with the whole campus and praise God is not one to be taken for granted; it really is a blessing.
What drew you to choose political science as your major?
I declared my political science major because I enjoy politics, and because I knew that Grove City College is a solid conservative school which nonetheless respects and engages with differing ideological opinions. I declared my second major, philosophy, when I was midway through an introduction to philosophy class. The class covered some works of Aristotle, Descartes, and Hume; about halfway through the course, I knew I wanted to learn a lot more philosophy. I have not been disappointed.
What is the relationship like between students and professors?
Student-professor relationships are a highlight at Grove City College. The professors are very intentional about being open for questions or discussions during office hours. I have developed good relationships with several of my professors. A couple of examples will illustrate the kinds of opportunities that are available. First: Dr. Verbois, who teaches political science, has helped me get accepted into exclusive honors programs two summers running. Without his suggestions and input, I would never have even known where to apply. Second: Sophomore year in a class of Dr. Franklin’s, I wrote a paper about the ethics of abortion. After the paper was turned in, Dr. Franklin suggested that I try to get the paper published. He guided me through the process of polishing, writing, and re-writing the paper I had handed in, and the paper was eventually published in a journal of philosophy. This accomplishment would have been absolutely impossible without the help of a professor who was willing to give time and input to a student’s personal project.
What do you find to be the most unique aspect of Grove City College?
The most unique aspect of Grove City College is probably that it is a strongly conservative Christian school that really values freedom. The College has commonsense rules, but school authority is not used in an overbearing or overly restrictive fashion.