If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance that you and your student are standing at the edge of an exciting season. Maybe you’re just starting the college search. Maybe Grace Christian University has been on your list for a while. Either way, a college visit is a meaningful step forward, and we’re so glad you’re considering it.
At Grace Christian University, we’ve met a lot of families in the middle of big decisions. We know how personal this process feels. Choosing a college means thinking about more than just classes or campus size. It’s about where God is leading your student and finding a place that feels like home to them, in a community where they can grow. A college visit is one of the best ways to see if Grace is that place. Here’s what to expect when you visit and how to make the most of your time on campus.
What Happens on a Campus Visit?
From the moment you step onto Grace Christian University’s campus, there’s an immediate sense of intentional community. Students hold the door open. Staff smile and greet you. It’s more than hospitality. Our community is grounded in biblical values and a shared commitment to growing in Christ.
Your visit will likely begin at our Student Commons, where a member of the Admissions team will meet you and walk through your itinerary for the day. From there, your campus tour will begin.
Families can expect to see the academic buildings, the chapel, residence halls, athletic spaces, commons, and other campus spots that shape everyday life. Throughout the visit, you’ll hear how spiritual formation, academic support, and real-world preparation are all built into the student experience here.
For many families, visiting campus brings everything into focus. Hearing about chapel is helpful, but watching students gather to worship makes it real. Reading about academic programs is useful, but sitting in on a class or chatting with a professor adds a whole new layer of understanding.
What Should You Bring?
It’s smart to come prepared, especially if this is one of your first college visits. Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down things that stand out or questions you still have when the visit ends. Students might want to bring a list of potential majors, career interests, or extracurriculars they’re curious about. Parents often come with financial aid questions or housing concerns; write those down too.
You’ll be doing some walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Michigan can be unpredictable. A water bottle, a Bible or journal, and any official documents (like transcripts if you want to talk about dual enrollment or transfer credits) can be helpful.
Above all, bring an open mind and a prayerful heart. College visits are more than gathering data; they’re about discerning God’s direction.
What Should You Expect to Learn?
A campus visit is about more than checking out buildings and brochures. At Grace, we invite families into the heart of who we are: a caring community grounded in biblical truth, committed to graduating courageous ambassadors for Christ.
During your visit, you’ll see how that mission plays out in real life.
You’ll hear about how Grace students serve locally and globally. How they get involved in ministry, even as underclassmen. How they’re trained to lead in churches, businesses, classrooms, and communities with humility, purpose, and conviction.
You’ll also see what college life really looks like. The dining hall, the athletic center, and the small moments between classes. These are the things that shape a student’s daily rhythm, and they matter just as much as academics.
How Long Does a Visit Take?
Most visits to Grace Christian University last between 1.5 and 3 hours. If you’re just coming for a tour and a counselor meeting, plan for a morning or afternoon. If you’d like your student to sit in on a class, attend chapel, or meet with additional departments, we recommend blocking out 3–4 hours.
We know many families travel from outside West Michigan, so we do our best to accommodate your schedule and make your time meaningful. If you’d like help planning nearby meals or want to explore Grand Rapids after your visit, just ask! We love our city and are happy to share local favorites.
What Questions Should You Be Asking?
College visits are a two-way street. Yes, we want to show you what makes Grace special, but we also want to help you ask the right questions. Here are some good ones to consider:
For Students:
- What kind of community will help me grow in my faith?
- Do I feel comfortable here? Do I see myself belonging?
- What majors match up with my calling or interests?
- What are students doing after they graduate from Grace?
For Parents:
- How does Grace support students spiritually, academically, and emotionally?
- What’s the true cost of attending, and how can we maximize financial aid?
- What happens if my student changes their major or needs academic help?
- What safety measures and campus policies are in place for student well-being?
Ask what’s on your heart. We’re not afraid of hard questions. Our staff and students are here to give honest answers rooted in our mission and values.
What Will the Campus Atmosphere Feel Like?
Families often tell us they “felt something different” at Grace.
You’ll see it in the way students greet you with smiles and offer to help you find your way. You can feel it in the chapel as the music plays and scripture is opened. You’ll sense it when professors talk about their students.
Our campus may be small, but it’s full of life. We’re intentional about building a community where students are known by name and feel like they belong. If you value relationships, discipleship, and a learning environment where faith is never an afterthought, you’ll notice that right away.
What if You’re Still Unsure After the Visit?
That’s okay. A visit is just one part of the journey. Maybe you and your student leave Grace feeling completely certain this is the place. Or maybe you walk away with new questions to pray about. Either way, the visit served its purpose: it brought clarity.
Keep the conversation going on the drive home. Ask your student what they noticed, what stood out, and what they’re feeling. Share your thoughts too. Sometimes, simply reflecting on the visit together can reveal more than the visit itself.
Our admissions counselors are always available for follow-up conversations. We’ll even hop on a video call or meet for coffee if you’re local. We’re here to support your family, not pressure you.
How Do You Schedule a Visit?
It’s simple! You can head to gracechristian.edu/visit and choose a date that works for your family. You’ll fill out a short form with some basic information, and our team will reach out to help coordinate your personalized itinerary.
Prefer to talk it through with someone? Call our admissions office at (616) 538-2330, and we’ll walk you through the process.
We also offer Grace All Access days, larger events where multiple families visit at once. These include chapel worship, class previews, faculty meet-and-greets, and lunch in the dining commons. It’s a great option if your student wants to get a feel for the energy of Grace as a whole.
Final Thoughts for Parents and Students
This is a season full of decisions, emotions, and prayer. As a parent, you’re probably balancing excitement with a little worry. You want your student to find a place where they’ll be safe, challenged, and grounded in their faith.
As a student, you might be juggling excitement with nervousness. You want a place that will set you up for your future, make lasting friendships, and discover your calling.
At Grace Christian University, our mission is to walk with you through this journey and equip your student to become a courageous ambassador for Christ, ready to make an eternal impact wherever they go.
We’d love to meet you and walk the campus with you. Pray with you. and to help you imagine what’s possible here.
So go ahead, take the step. Schedule your visit. Or call our admissions office at (616) 538-2330 to talk with one of our team members.
We can’t wait to welcome you to Grace, and we’re here for you every step of the way.
