How religious is Calvin College? [international]

CalvinAlum2013
Mon, 19 Dec 2016 15:27:08 +0000

Yes, newly created account. I created an account when someone mentioned this thread to me.

The reformed tradition stems from The Reformation. Simply put, it started a long time ago when some christians broke away from the catholic church over a difference in beliefs. You seem to be very conscious of how all of this applies practically to you. No offense, as an atheist, you seem to be thinking the main difference between christian colleges or christian denominations is what rules we have. I don’t know many christians who view their faith as “how best to follow rules” and Calvin isn’t like other colleges who have such strict rules (research horror stories on Cornerstone in Grand Rapids).

I think the most general difference in reformed thought is how intellectually strict it is compared to other christian groups. The theology, right or wrong, is well thought out. This is not some Baptist church thinking eight-year olds preaching is a good idea or that you can feel your way to truth. Your atheism will rightly be challenged directly or indirectly (as it should, not because someone at Calvin would want to be mean and disagree with you, but because the theology professors make a habit of challenging everyone on everything, which professors should do).

The religious courses are pretty difficult, maybe even more so for the CS, math, engineering students, etc. If I remember correctly, you have an orientation course, then have to take an old testament course, and a new testament course. The orientation course is easy. The next two can be difficult. Again, no offense, but as an atheist you probably think this is “kooky christian class” where you hold hands, finger paint crosses, and play bible trivia games.

Nope, it’s harder. You have to keep up with your readings and be prepared.

My atheist roommate enjoyed those classes. They are challenging but he liked to learn the history of the church. He liked Calvin’s programs and what he majored in led to some great career opportunities for him.

I had some friends do CS programs and they are doing very well (perhaps more a testament to the major and the labor market than a Calvin specific thing). Some went to grad programs and some started working. Calvin would probably take pride in their CS program, but also the engineering program is very good, and the nursing program. I know some engineering and CS students who went on to work at Google and Tesla. Very cool stuff.

Lastly, a word of warning, you should be a little skeptical of what any admissions department says or what a student they connect you with might say (for any college). I haven’t commented on your questions regarding phrases in the brochure, because it’s a brochure and is supposed to be filled with focus-group tested buzz words. Every admissions department will tell you their college is “right for you.”

What other questions do you have?