Hi! I’m Emma and I’m a junior Sociology major with minors in philosophy and environmental studies. I’m from Colorado Springs, so my love of mountain climbing trumps all, but I’m also a fan of drinking tea and handwritten letters. My hope is to go through life seeking God’s goodness in each and every moment and to enjoy the crazy adventures along the way.
When I heard there were colleges where professors invited students for dinner, I knew I wanted to find a school with a professor population that was involved in the life of students. I found that at Grove City College.
Just this past weekend, I attended the annual Sociology Professor Chili Cook-off. The event was a great time of laughter and good conversation with professors and students from the Sociology department. Dr. Campbell and his wife opened up their home (within walking distance to campus) for the sociology faculty to duel for the title of “best chili.” The night began with high hopes as Dr. Bright convinced all of the professors and students that his chili would surely win. The night came to an unexpected peak when the votes came in and Dr. Anderson emerged as the winner.
The beloved Dr. Anderson with the winning Golden Spatula. (Take note of Dr. Bright bowing in submission in the back.)
It’s a unique blessing to be welcomed into a home off of campus, but more importantly the relationships that are built between professors and students are what make Grove City so special. Because professors invest in the student as a whole, they understand the student and can cater to his or her needs in the classroom. This could mean taking the time to extend office hours (times when professors are available to meet with students), or sending an email to make sure a student isn’t overloaded with work. Dr. Campbell even sat down with me before finals week to ensure my success on his exam. Professors’ investment in students goes beyond the classroom – because they know their students so well, they’re able to advise them on what careers would be most fulfilling.
Freshman, Lydia Rothbard, tasting the winning chili.
I often run into professors at church or other places in the community and enjoy conversing with them outside of the classroom. The wisdom professors pour out into all areas of students’ lives are an integral part of the education here. Without the hospitality, kindness, encouragement, and knowledge of professors, Grove City students wouldn’t experience half of the success they do.