How big of a role did affordability play in your college decision making process?
It was huge. I had intended to go to a private university in Chicago, on a Naval ROTC scholarship as a biology major. I told the ROTC office at the university that I wanted to change my major to political science and they dropped my scholarship. I couldn’t afford the school any longer, and Grove City College seemed like the obvious choice. I had an amazing visit, and the price tag was a big part of my final decision to go to Grove City College.
How does the tuition cost of Grove City College compare to the other schools you looked at during your college selection?
Grove City College had by far the lowest tuition cost in my college search. All my other options were out of state or private universities that were much more expensive than Grove City College.
How has your faith been strengthened and perhaps even challenged during your time here?
My faith grew in amazing ways at Grove City College. I went to 13 years of public schooling so living in a community with girls who love the Lord and encouraged me to pursue Him in joy was an amazing surprise. In addition to that, having professors who teach from a biblical perspective was so refreshing. One of the things I still remember from my freshman year was when my Western Civilization professor, Dr. Clemm, prayed for us before our final. It was a really cool moment.
How would you describe the level of academics you have experienced during your time at Grove City College?
The academics at Grove City College are definitely challenging, especially the humanities core. I’ve never been someone who just slid by and got good grades. I always had to work. That was a big blessing when I got to Grove City College because I was used to working hard for my grades. I spent a lot of time on my work each week and got used to multiple hours of reading each night.
What drew you to choose political science as your major?
I took a really awesome AP government class my senior year of high school, during the 2012 primaries. It was a fun time to study politics, and I learned a lot. My dad is professionally involved in politics, and it seemed like something I would enjoy studying and something I could make a career out of. On top of that, Grove City College has access to The Center of Vision & Values, which brings in awesome speakers. Even though Grove City College is a small school, the Department of Political Science goes above and beyond when it comes to connecting students with people in the political world.
What is the relationship like between the students and the professors?
They are all super welcoming and genuinely care about what students have to say and want to help. Since many of the classes are smaller, the professors take time to get to know and ask students questions. In addition to that, they are more than willing to answer any questions about class, help you understand a concept, or review ideas that you have for papers or projects. Overall, I’ve found them to be caring and kind.
What is your favorite aspect of Grove City College?
My favorite aspect of Grove City College is most definitely the Christian nature of it. The College is careful to make sure that the students are held to the high standards that Christians are called to meet but does not place a burden of many unnecessary rules. Far too many Christian schools seem to fall into either legalism or a cavalier nature that does not exist at Grove City College.
How would you describe the relationship that the students have with each other on campus?
The students at Grove City College demonstrate love and support for each other in awesome ways. I have never had better friendships than the ones that have occurred between myself and my friends from the College. We are not only brought together by common experiences, but even deeper, upon a foundation of a shared faith, and that makes the relationships so much more worthwhile.