How big of a role did the affordability of Grove City College play in your college decision making process?
Grove City College’s low tuition was definitely a factor for me when assessing various colleges as a high school senior. With three other siblings at home, the College’s competitive tuition was very helpful to us as a family and was the “icing on the cake” for a school I was already excited about with its strong academic reputation and Christian environment.
How was your faith strengthened and perhaps even challenged during your time here?
Throughout my time as a student at Grove City College I grew significantly in my faith through fellowship with other believers (students and faculty), involvement in Christian organizations and worship, participation in an inner city outreach mission trip and faculty-led excursion to Israel, and the integration of faith into my classroom experiences.
During those college years, I was surrounded by Christians who lived out their faith in ways that inspired and challenged me in my own spiritual journey. Additionally, my relationships were grounded in a common connection in Christ which led to more meaningful connections in my life than I had experienced before.
In classes, faculty members challenged my prior theological understandings, prompting me to more deeply consider other viewpoints and perspectives when solidifying my own. I left Grove City College with a richer understanding of and commitment toward my faith – an investment that I truly believe is priceless!
How would you describe the level of academics you experienced during your time at Grove City College?
My professors at Grove City College pushed me toward a higher standard of excellence which inspired me to work harder than I ever had before. As a student, I was challenged to think critically and deeply and was expected to work diligently for every grade I received. When I graduated from the institution, I received my diploma with the realization, appreciation, and satisfaction that I had earned every bit of it after four years of being academically challenged. Additionally, I entered the workforce more prepared with a strong work ethic, solid knowledge base, and an array of skills to offer my employer.
What is the relationship like between the students and the professors?
My relationships with faculty members were something I greatly prized during my time as a student. My professors were accessible to me when I had questions about course material. I went on an overseas trip led by two faculty members, getting to know them and their spouses on a more personal basis. I even sought out my professors for advice pertaining to personal, spiritual, or career-related matters. As a school of our size, one of the major benefits is being able to develop close relationships with faculty members. Moreover, as a Christian college, it was a joy and blessing to be spiritually connected to my professors.
What advice would you give to an incoming student?
Be intentional about your college experience by availing yourself of the resources and opportunities before you. Take advantage of experiences to grow and develop, both in the classroom and outside of the classroom. College is more than just your major/minor and classes. It is a unique time to grow holistically and that growth happens by engaging in both the curricular and co-curricular aspects of college life. You get out of college what you put into it!
How active are students in campus activities such as intramural, Greek life, sports, clubs, musical productions, etc.?
Given the fact that Grove City College is primarily a residential college where most students live on campus, the social aspect of the campus is very vibrant. There are numerous opportunities to be involved and to even start a new club or organization depending upon a student’s interests.
As a dancer all of my life, I was thrilled to be able to continue my passion for dance through being involved in the Orchesis Dance Troupe all four years. Additionally, I had opportunities to develop leadership skills by serving as an officer of some groups and as a committee chair for a major annual event on campus my senior year. Those opportunities developed skills in me that better prepared me for my future professional endeavors.