What are some of the ways you have been spiritually engaged while at Grove City College?
The biggest way that I have been spiritually engaged while at college is through clubs and on campus organizations. While attending a church regularly at college is helpful and important, being a part of a ministry on campus gives a new perspective on the spiritual journey through life. Being involved with these organizations has directly allowed me to interact with others who come from different beliefs and traditions, as well as others who share similar traditions.
How do the academics challenge students to think on a deeper level about the world and life in general?
From personal experience with engineering, academics challenge students by keeping us focused and persistent in our questions and observations of the world. It is easy to become distracted with work. However, simply completing the next assignment is never enough. It is always better to look back at a problem and see the steps it takes to get there than simply arriving at the right answer. This same logic has helped me in my life. Instead of simply seeing the results of interactions with others, I have seen the practical importance of the steps or circumstances that lead to the end result.
What are some of the ways that professors ensure that students not only receive information but truly learn and understand how to apply that information?
The biggest way to learn and understand material is to practice. One of the strengths of mechanical engineering is problem solving. I have experienced the joy of being taught material, and then applying the concepts to problems that I have never solved before. I have also experienced the disappointment of not knowing what to do in a problem. However, both of these experiences were through the constant practice and challenges set up by my professors.
What do you find to be the most unique aspect of Grove City College?
The balance of academics, faith, and fellowship. I have seen academics be the focus of many students. However, I have seen that the best students in the classroom are the ones who have kept academics balanced with faith and friends. The College has done an excellent job encouraging students to challenge themselves in all aspects, by providing opportunities to make strong friendships and be a part of ministry.
How would you describe the relationship that the students have with each other on campus?
For student to student relationships, the best way to describe it is that we are all colleagues. Most of us are pursuing a different career path, and many of us have different skills. However, there is always joy found in seeing the differences and similarities in each student and major. In addition, I have seen many students challenge each other to become stronger in their faith and understanding of others.
Learn more about Grove City College's B.S. in Mechanical Engineering.