Valparaiso University

College is what you make of it. I'm sure you've heard that a thousand times, and are rolling your eyes right now. Seriously though, if you come here and sit in your room, don't put yourself out there (at least a little bit), don't get involved on campus, and approach college as something you have to do rather than something you get to do, you will have a horrible time. However, this is true at every other college you will find. If you approach Valparaiso with an open mind, you will get everything you wanted and more from your college experience.

Let me also clear some things up (not to write an essay here...Christ College has changed me, I swear!). No, Valparaiso is not the most exciting city. There is not much to do in town, and the nearest exciting city is Chicago, which is about an hours drive away. It is also not the biggest party school, even while it is becoming more open to the idea again. If you want to party, if you want to drink, or if you want to have a good time on the weekends, you can. Easily. There is no shortage of parties, alcohol, or (on the brighter side of things) good people to spend your time with. Don't think that you won't have fun here, it is once again what you make it.

Personally I love it here. I have met some of the most amazing people, made great friends, and am learning as much as I ever wanted to and more. The music and theatre programs here are incredibly friendly (I am a non major and I sing in the top choir here and recently got a lead role in the upcoming musical) and the professors are very approachable and friendly. They really want you to do well and are incredibly qualified to help you succeed. There are professors here who graduated from the very top universities in the US and are making the learning environment here challenging and incredibly respected across the country. Apply to be in Christ College, it is an incredible program if you put in the work, and don't worry, it's not a Jesus camp.

What it comes down to for me, and what your college decision should also come down to, is where you feel the most comfortable. What's the point of going to a big name school if you'll hate it when you get there, or not relate to your peers? I turned down a lot of good schools to come here (Vanderbilt, Washington and Lee, Northwestern, Depauw, Oberlin) and two full rides, and you know what? It was the best decision I could have made. The people here are some of the best I've encountered in my life, and I whole-heartedly think that this is the best place for me. So when making your decision, visit. It is a huge factor. I would have accepted a full ride to a school that I ended up strongly disliking when I visited. Make sure that the school is right for you. Valparaiso isn't right for everyone, not at all, but you can't really know that until you come here. Make up your own mind about what we stand for, and what kind of institution this is. Talk to the people, listen in on a class, interview a professor, go to a concert or a show. Really try to understand the school behind the name, and you'll make the best decision for you. I wish you good luck in your decision, I know how hard it can seem right now, but if you make a well informed decision and stick to it and make the best of it, I promise that you will enjoy and benefit from college, no matter where that might be. Thank you for reading.