How big of a role did the affordability of Grove City College play in your college decision making process?
The chance to graduate from a highly reputable college with a technical degree and a Career Services Office with a track-record of helping students discern and find jobs in the field they are passionate about, and to do this all debt-free, this was one of the leading factors for my decision.
How has your faith been strengthened and perhaps even challenged during your time here?
My faith has principally been challenged by the opportunity to be surrounded by Christian brothers and sisters who, through each of our struggles and triumphs, have been able to run together towards Christ while in close proximity and common experience.
What drew you to choose mechanical engineering as your major?
I wanted to study mechanical engineering from professors who had a sense of mission and calling; models who would not simply convey technical content to me, but would challenge me to see the work I am preparing to do as integral to who God has made me as a person and a facet of His Kingdom. I saw in the mechanical engineering men and women who viewed excellence in academics as worship, and I wanted to learn from that and participate.
What is the relationship like between the students and the professors?
My professors have been my friends and mentors. I have spent time with my professors over the summer, had the opportunity to join their families for meals and barbecues, and been brought alongside their work and research. In short, the faculty at Grove City College see it as part of their calling to disciple and befriend, to challenge and encourage.
What do you find to be the most unique aspect of Grove City College?
Creeking! When a young man becomes engaged to a young woman, his fiancée collaborates with his friends to surprise him en masse, abducting him from some part of campus, bearing him on the happy crowd’s shoulders and carting him down to Wolf Creek while chanting loudly that hallowed name (usually attracting the attention of random passersby, who often join for the fun of it, as was the case in my “creeking”). Once at the edge of Wolf Creek, the lucky man receives a kiss from his intended before being born into the creek by his closest friends and laid in the waters (gently and lovingly, of course) to be “cleaned.” He is then given a towel from his beloved, cheered over, and officially GCC-approved for marriage.
Describe your experience with residence life at Grove City College, particularly freshman year.
Incredibly fun. The resident assistants and residence life in general did an excellent job in creating opportunities for scared freshmen to be contextualized and planted so that we can blossom. Plus, being on a hall of guys who have never met is a recipe for a sort of joy which only spontaneity can bring.
Learn more about Grove City College's B.S. in Mechanical Engineering.