Admissions

If you are worried about making friends, don't worry, Calvin does a terrific job of keeping you busy the first few weeks, so just be yourself and you will soon find out who it is you want to hang out with.

Professors respect when you work hard, and if they know it they will be far. Don't be afraid to ask them for help, they are looking for students that want to be successful.
Professors are also great for other advice, about other classes, your major (or minors), life, your faith, or sometimes even if you have relationship problems. They are there for you.

Don't put off homework assignments for social time. Also, try to do as much homework as you can -- especially in classes that you're struggling in. Don't be afraid to go to your prof and ask questions. Every prof I've had so far has been more than willing to help out. Going to ask questions during their office hours also shows the prof that you want to do well in the class and that you care about the class subject.

Some tips for prospective students is not to worry whether you will be able to make friends and succeed. The professors and advisers are here for you and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. Also if you don't know, Calvin is mostly a white institution, there is an increase of diversity which can seen all around campus. There are events and also organizations such as the Multi-Cultural Student development office which cater and educate to learn more about other cultures that are presented here at Calvin.

Study, study, study! I was one of those people that could just coast through high school and study maybe five minutes for a test. Here I had to crank it up a notch and study for at least an hour.

Get involved! Don't be afraid to make friends and interact with your professors and advisers. Because it's in Michigan, it gets pretty humid in the summer, and we get a lot of snow in the winter; be prepared!

Look into your department, most of them are great, but it is good to double check whether you think the program will be right for you. As the first year and second year are both (usually) years where you will be living in the dorm, jump right into dorm life and put yourself out there for the first few weeks, even if you are a much more introverted person (I am as well) because it will make the rest of your time much easier and more friendly. I think the people at Calvin is one of the main reasons to go, so if you put some effort in to open yourself up a bit, there is a lot that will be given to you in return.

To prospective students, work hard and ask professors for help. They truly want you to learn and get as much as you can out of your classes. The class sizes are smaller so it allows a more engaging and personal experience.

Be prepared to study. Calvin is not the easy A you may be used to getting in high school. Also, if you plan to attend a party college, you need to take Calvin off your list.

Don't let the cost freak you out - It will be worth it and you will get lots of help. Remember that this is the gateway to your future and Calvin is an excellent choice to excel and be successful.