Calvin University

Founded in 1876, Calvin University is a mid-sized Christian liberal arts institution located in Grand Rapids, Michigan that trains students "to think critically and live out their vocation in the world while working to advance God's Kingdom." The prestigious academics (the nursing and honors programs are standouts) feature a high level of integration of faith within the classroom, and "departments teach their specific content in the context of a Christian worldview." The coursework is "difficult and challenging," but faculty "make us feel welcomed and make sure they are available for all of our questions." Not only are their teaching methods stellar, they are "relatable and offer good advice, genuinely wishing the students a good future."

Professors have "a desire to share their wealth of experiences and passions with the students" and are "extremely talented, interesting, and connected in their specific fields." Instructors are also "masters at integration of education and Christianity," making the classes at Calvin less about teaching the requisites for getting a job and "more about how to continue to learn about the field and how Christianity should figure into it." Within courses, there is great opportunity to delve into complicated and often controversial topics "in a way that doesn't ignore culture, science, or social scientific data." Sharing ideas is encouraged between students. "I feel I can appropriately express my opinions and views without the condemnation of others," says one. No matter your passion or career choice, "you will be paired with advisors [who have] similar passions," which "allows freedom to express thoughts and talk openly with willing professors.

Calvin's undergrads includes a wide range of students and interests, including a significant number of international students, athletes, those with Dutch heritage, and "valedictorians everywhere." A large percentage of the students "are Christians and come from somewhere in the Midwest," and all are generally "friendly, helpful, outgoing, and hardworking." One student notes, "Some people feel that Calvin University is very diverse and others feel that it is not diverse at all, depending on where they came from." Diversity activities are highly emphasized and encouraged around campus, and the student body is "small enough that Calvin begins to feel like home, but large enough that you don't know everyone." As one student puts it best, "There is a niche for everyone in the social life of the school."

Dorm life is vibrant and "a big focus" at Calvin. Within the dorms "there is plenty of opportunity for leadership, and everyone is encouraged to grow together." Floor events in the residential halls are huge bonding occasions. The Student Life Division does a good job of organizing events that many students attend, including movies, board game nights, and concerts, and there are also "lots of clubs on campus that you can get involved in." When people aren't studying (studying in the hammocks around campus is popular) or in class, they often go to coffee shops or to get food together. Most work part-time, and there are "many different opportunities for on-campus jobs." Extracurriculars are big, and students "go backpacking, swing dancing...or hiking." There are also lots of things to do in the Grand Rapids area, and "people go out to meals, movies, bowling, sporting events, the downtown market, and other events in the city such as ArtPrize," or will go to Lake Michigan. Chapel is held daily but is not required, and there are a lot of "study groups and Bible studies to help each other grow toward academic and spiritual goals."