I don’t say that to scare you. I say it because I’ve been there. More than once. And after a few messy finals weeks, cramming, half‑sleeping, rewriting the same paper three times, I realized something: I didn’t need to suffer to survive. I just needed to know what I was doing with my time, my brain, and my energy.

Here’s what I wish I knew before finals week: it doesn’t have to feel like an endurance test. It should feel like you’re at your best, not your most exhausted.

Panic feels productive, but it isn’t

The first trap? Mistaking panic for focus. When everything feels urgent, it’s easy to think that if you’re stressed, you must be working hard. So you doom‑scroll through your notes, open three different tabs, re‑read the same slide, then stare at the wall wondering if anything is actually stuck.

I used to call that “studying.” But it’s not really studying. It’s emotional multitasking. And at the end of the night, you’re tired, maybe a little wired, and not much closer to actually understanding the material.

Here’s what changed for me: I stopped trying to feel dramatic and started trying to be clear. I’d write down one thing I needed to finish, like “review chapter 6” or “draft intro paragraph” and then shut everything else out for 30–45 minutes. No comparing notes with friends, no checking your phone every three minutes. Just one thing.

It works so much better than frantically having “I’m‑so‑stressed‑look‑how‑hard‑I’m‑working” energy every time.

Not every study session has to feel like a workout 

There’s this unspoken rule on campus: if it doesn’t feel like suffering, you’re not trying hard enough. You need the all‑night library grind, the empty coffee cups, the “I haven’t slept in 48 hours” flex. As if exhaustion is a badge of honor.

I wish I’d known earlier that intense study sessions are not the only kind that count. Some of my best review days were short, boring, and actually kind of chill. I’d sit down for 30 minutes, go over flashcards, quiz myself, then walk away.

Here’s the thing: your brain doesn’t learn better because you’re miserable. It learns better when you’re rested, focused, and not trying to cram everything in one night. Spread your studying out. Revisit notes a few times instead of once at the last second. You’ll surprise yourself with how much you remember.

Sleep is part of studying, not the opposite of it

I still remember walking into an exam after a “study all night” experiment. I told myself I was being brave. I told myself I was committed. In reality, I was half‑asleep, half‑panicked, and my brain felt like it was moving through syrup.

I did okay. But I could’ve done better with a few hours of sleep and a little less ego.

Here’s what I wish I’d known: sleep is one of your best tools. When you’re tired, your working memory drops, your focus drifts, and your ability to problem‑solve takes a hit. You might think you’re “reviewing more” by staying up late, but your brain is actually learning less.

Aim for 7–8 hours, even during finals. If that feels impossible, start with at least 6. And if you have to choose between rereading one more chapter and going to bed, choose bed almost every time. You’ll walk into the exam with a clearer head, and that matters more than you think.

Your phone is stealing time without warning you

We all know this, right? You sit down “to study,” grab your phone to check one message, watch a quick video, and suddenly you’re 20 minutes deep into something that has nothing to do with finals.

By the end of the week, that adds up to hours.

Here’s the version I wish I’d tried earlier: admit the phone is a distraction and design around it. Put it on silent, drop it on the floor, or leave it in another room. Turn off notifications. Use a timer if you need to. If you’re the kind of person who studies in the library, keep your phone on airplane mode and only open it during breaks.

You don’t need to give up your phone for the whole week. Just give yourself windows where it’s not there. When that happens, you’ll notice your focus sharpens, your watch goes faster, and your stress goes down.

You need people more than you think

Finals have this weird way of making students go into isolation mode. You tell yourself, “I just need to lock in for a few days,” and then you disappear from group chats, avoid the dining hall, and forget to talk to anyone.

That’s when burnout starts creeping in.

I used to act like finals were a solo mission. Then I realized: a quick conversation with a friend, a study partner who asks you questions, or even someone who just says, “You got this,” can actually help you think better.

You don’t need a huge support system. You need a few real check‑ins. A roommate who reminds you to eat. A classmate who asks if you want to review together. Connection doesn’t just make finals feel lighter, it makes your brain feel lighter too.

Burnout starts before you notice

Burnout doesn’t always announce itself with a dramatic crash. It sneaks in. You start feeling weirdly tired even when you’ve slept. You snap at your roommate over tiny things. You open a textbook and your brain just… shuts down. You keep scrolling or staring at your notes without actually reading them.

I ignored those signs for a long time, thinking I “just had to push through.” But pushing through burnout is like driving with an empty tank, you’re eventually going to stop whether you like it or not.

What I wish I’d known: rest is not a reward for suffering; it’s a requirement for staying functional. If you’re taking breaks, getting outside, eating decent food, and not expecting yourself to be “on” 24/7, you’re already doing better than most students during finals.

Good grades matter, but they’re not your whole story

This is the one I wish someone had told me earlier: your worth is not tied to your GPA.

Grades matter. Deadlines matter. Your effort matters. But one final exam, one bad paper, or one rough semester doesn’t cancel out everything else you’ve done. Finals week makes everything feel bigger than it is, like one test will decide your whole future. It won’t.

And when everything starts to feel overwhelming, this is where you need to pause, not just to rest, but to reset. Prayer, worship, and  as showing up to chapel can do more for your mind than another hour of stressed-out studying. It gives you space to breathe, to refocus, and to remember that you’re not carrying this alone.

If you don’t know where to start, here are 10 Bible Verses to Help You Through Finals Week that can help ground you.

What I’d tell my younger self

If I could go back and talk to myself before finals week, here’s what I’d say:

Plan earlier than you think you need to.
Sleep more than your pride wants you to.
Put the phone down.
Ask for help.
And stop treating stress like it proves you’re working hard.

Finals week will always be busy. It will always feel tight. But it doesn’t have to ruin you. The students who get through it best aren’t the ones who never struggle. They’re the ones who know when to focus, when to rest, and when to step back and say, “I’m doing the best I can, and that’s enough.

The post 7 Things I Wish I Knew Before Finals Week appeared first on Grace Christian University.

That’s kind of the whole point of this post. If you’re a college student in the Grand Rapids area, there are actually a lot of cheap hobbies you can do that don’t require a ton of money, don’t need fancy equipment, and don’t make you feel like you’re pretending to live a lifestyle you can’t afford. A lot of the best hobbies are simple, local, and honestly kind of underrated.

I’ve also realized that hobbies matter more than people think. When classes are piling up, your brain feels scrambled, it helps to have something that’s just yours. Something that isn’t a homework assignment, a job shift, or another group text trying to make weekend plans. Sometimes you just need a thing that makes life feel normal again.

So if you’re trying to find cheap hobbies, here are some of the ones I think are worth trying around Grand Rapids and West Michigan.

Nature Walks 

This one is probably the simplest, but also one of the best. West Michigan is a really good place for this because there are so many trails, parks, and little spots where you can just go walk around and not spend any money. You don’t need gear, you don’t need a plan, and you don’t even need to be in a good mood at first.

I’ve had days where I was feeling kind of off for no clear reason—not even dramatically upset, just mentally cluttered—and for whatever reason, taking a walk always helps more than I expect it to. There’s something about putting on a hoodie, tossing in headphones, and just walking through nature.

Grand Rapids has tons of easy‑to‑reach spots, like Millennium Park, which is one of the largest urban parks in the country and has nearly 18 miles of free trails winding through woods, fields, and along the Grand River. West Michigan in general has that mix of city and nature, so whether you need a quick walk around the river or a longer loop in the woods, you’re never far from a reset.

Thrifting in Grand Rapids

Thrifting is basically a rite of passage if you’re a student trying to save money. It’s one of those hobbies that starts out as “I’m just looking” and somehow turns into an hour-long adventure where you find three things you don’t need but suddenly feel emotionally attached to.

Grand Rapids has a lot of good thrift stores, and honestly, that makes the whole experience better. You can make a whole afternoon out of it with a friend. I’ve gone into thrift stores with zero expectations and walked out with something weirdly perfect, like a jacket, a mug, or a random book I now feel like I was meant to own.

A solid Christian‑themed thrift store very close to Grace Christian University (in the Grand Rapids/Wyoming area) is New Life Christian Thrift Store, located in Wyoming. It’s a Christian‑run thrift store that supports several local Christian schools with its proceeds, so shopping there ties back to a faith‑based mission. Hours are roughly 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on most weekdays, with slightly shorter Saturday hours, making it convenient after class or on your way home from campus.

The best part about thrifting is that it doesn’t have to be about clothes either. Sometimes it’s decor for your room, sometimes it’s old records, sometimes it’s a stack of books. But it feels fun because there’s an actual sense of discovery in it. You never know what you’ll find.

Coffee Shop Study Sessions

I know coffee can add up if you go overboard, but I still think sitting in a coffee shop counts as a hobby if you’re doing it intentionally. At least that’s what I tell myself when I need an excuse to spend two hours in a nice, warm space pretending to be productive. Grand Rapids has a lot of great coffee shops, and that’s one of the things I really like, Wildroast Coffee is one of my favorites, with its cozy atmosphere and strong, well‑roasted brews. I’ll go somewhere just to change the environment a little. My room can start to feel too familiar after a while, especially when I’ve been staring at a laptop for too long. A coffee shop gives me a reason to leave without needing to make it a huge event. I’ve also had some of my best random thoughts in coffee shops, which is probably because I’m less distracted than I am at home. Or maybe it’s just the caffeine doing what it does.

Frisbee Golf on Campus

This is one of those hobbies that feels kind of underrated until you actually try it. Having a frisbee golf course right on the Grace Christian University campus makes it even better, because it’s one of those things you can do without needing to leave, spend money, or plan a whole outing around it.

I like hobbies like this because they make it easy to do something active without it feeling too serious. You can grab a couple friends, head out between classes or after dinner, and just play a few holes without needing to be amazing at it. Half the fun is honestly just talking, laughing, and trying to avoid embarrassing yourself too badly on the first throw.

Frisbee golf also has that perfect college vibe where it feels casual enough for anyone to join. You don’t need to be athletic in some intense way. You just show up, toss the frisbee, and see what happens.

Pickleball at Pinery Park

Pickleball is one of those things that seemed random at first, but honestly, it makes sense why people like it. It’s easy to learn, competitive if you want it to be, and actually fun with friends. And having the courts at Pinery Park right off campus makes it even better because you don’t have to go far to get a game in.

I think pickleball works so well for students because it’s low-pressure. You don’t need a ton of experience, and nobody really expects you to be perfect. You can show up knowing almost nothing and still have a good time. That’s probably why it catches on so fast. It feels more like hanging out than working out, which is kind of ideal when you’re already tired from classes.

Learning or Playing Music

If you already play an instrument, music is honestly one of the best cheap hobbies you can have. And if you don’t, it’s still worth learning because there are so many ways to start without spending a ton. You can find beginner lessons online, borrow gear, practice on your own, or just slowly build it into your life over time.

I’ve always liked that music can be both personal and social. Sometimes it’s just you in your room practicing the same song over and over until it finally sounds right. Other times it’s playing with friends, doing something at church, or just messing around on a guitar and seeing where it goes. It can be private and expressive, but it can also be a way to connect with people.

I also think music is one of those hobbies that sneaks up on you. You don’t always realize how much it’s helping until you notice that it became part of your routine. There have been times when picking up a guitar for even ten minutes completely changed my mood. Not because I suddenly became amazing at it, but because it gave me something steady to focus on.

Going to The Beach or Lakeshore

This is one of the biggest perks of living in West Michigan, and I feel like people still underestimate it sometimes. The lake is right there. You can go sit by the water, walk on the beach, hang out with friends, or just take a solo trip when you need to clear your head. Holland State Park and Grand Haven State Park are both solid options when you want that classic dune‑and‑boardwalk experience, but if you want to get away from the crowds, there are quieter spots like Windsnest Park (a lesser‑known beach) or Rosy Mound Natural Area, where the trails lead right down to the shore.

A lake day does not have to be expensive. Bring snacks, a towel, maybe a book or a speaker, and that’s really enough. Some of the best days are the ones where nobody had a huge plan. You just show up, sit around, and let the afternoon happen. I’ve always thought being near the water has a way of making things feel slower—not in a boring way, but in a way that reminds you that you do not have to be doing five things at once all the time. College can make everything feel urgent, and the lake kind of pushes back against that. It’s also a pretty great option when you want to hang out with people without spending much. You can talk, walk, eat snacks, and not feel like you need to buy a bunch of stuff to make the day count.

Taking Photos and Making Videos

This one is especially fun if you already like content creation or just enjoy noticing things other people ignore. You really do not need fancy equipment to start taking photos or making videos. A phone is enough. Grand Rapids is actually a pretty good place for this too because there’s a lot visually to work with,  murals, downtown buildings, bridges, the river, parks, little details on random streets, all of it.

One thing I’ve noticed with this hobby is that it changes the way you look at your surroundings. You start seeing light differently. You notice colors, shapes, patterns, weird little scenes. Even a normal walk downtown feels different when you’re looking for something to capture.

I like hobbies that make ordinary life feel a little more interesting, and this one definitely does that. You can make it as casual or serious as you want. Sometimes it’s just snapping random pictures because the sky looks good. Other times it’s trying to make a reel or short video. 

Either way, it’s a cheap hobby that can also grow into something useful if you keep at it.

Reading and Journaling

I know this sounds kind of basic, but I actually think basic hobbies are underrated. Reading and journaling do not always sound exciting, but they’re affordable, personal, and surprisingly helpful. 

Journaling especially can be a good reset when your thoughts are everywhere and you need to get them out of your head. I’ve had days where I wrote down everything I was worried about and immediately felt a little less overwhelmed, even if nothing around me had actually changed. That’s the kind of thing you don’t always appreciate until you’re in the middle of it.

Reading can be the same way. It gives your brain somewhere else to go. It makes the world feel a little less small. And if you find the right book, it can be one of those hobbies you actually look forward to instead of one you force yourself into.

Hobbies Are Better With Friends

Need a better heading for the ending paragraph. At the end of the day, the best hobbies are the ones you don’t do alone. Walking, thrifting, coffee‑shop studying, frisbee golf on campus, pickleball, or beach days all feel more meaningful when you’re doing them with people who actually care. That’s one of the things that makes Grace Christian University different, it’s a place where hobbies and friendships naturally overlap. You don’t have to force it. You can grab a friend between classes, walk down to the frisbee golf course, hit the volleyball court, or just hang out at Pinery Park and realize you’re not just “doing a hobby,” you’re building real relationships. If you’re looking for a campus where people value connection as much as they value academics, Grace is the kind of place where cheap hobbies turn into lasting memories and stronger friendships. 

The post Cheap Hobbies for College Students at Grace Christian University appeared first on Grace Christian University.

1. Faith Is Woven Into the Work

At Grace, you don’t just complete assignments, we engage with truth, His truth. Scripture isn’t just an add-on. It’s not a once-a-week discussion. It shows up in your reading, your reflections, your development, and even how you think through real-life challenges. You’re constantly being asked: “How does your faith inform how you grow, decide, and live?”

That question alone will grow you. I was able to grow in discipline through the weekly devotionals and it encouraged me to not just wait for a school assignment to open my Bible but to remain diligent in reading and meditating on my Word daily. 

2. You Learn to Think Differently

Spiritual growth isn’t just emotional, it’s structural.

Online learning forces you to slow down and process:

• What do I actually believe?
• Why do I believe it?
• How does it show up in my daily life?

You’re not just consuming information. You’re being stretched into alignment. And over time, you begin to notice: your reactions change… your priorities shift…your discernment sharpens… That’s growth.

I can’t talk about spiritual growth without being honest about what this journey has done for me personally. One of my previous classes at Grace focused on cultural intelligence and I didn’t realize how much I needed that. It stretched me. It made me more aware of how I lead, how I listen, and how I navigate different environments with both wisdom and humility. 

But more than that, every class I’ve taken has been building something deeper in me. Clarity. Not the kind of clarity that comes from doing more but the kind that comes from alignment. The kind where you start to recognize: “God already spoke this… I just needed the structure to walk it out.” 

That’s what this experience has done for me. It hasn’t changed my calling. It confirmed it, strengthened it. And it’s given me the discipline to actually execute it.

3. Discipline Becomes a Spiritual Practice

Online school requires discipline. No one is standing over you, no one is reminding you every five minutes, unless you have a spouse like mine taking classes alongside you. Even having him by my side I still have to show up. And in that process discipline becomes discipleship.

You learn to:

• Honor your commitments
• Steward your time
• Follow through even when it’s inconvenient

And those same habits begin to show up in your walk with God.

4. Growth Happens in Real Life, Not Just Class

One of the most beautiful parts of being an online student is that you don’t step out of your life to grow but you grow in the middle of it.

In between:

• work schedules
• kids
• Marriage
• Ministry
• responsibilities

You’re learning, stretching, and being refined. And that kind of growth sticks. Because it’s not theoretical.

It’s lived.

5. You Start Seeing Learning as Obedience

This was the shift for me. Going back to school wasn’t just a “goal” it became an act of obedience. A decision to steward what God placed inside of me. At Grace, I’ve learned that education isn’t just about achievement it’s about alignment.

And when you begin to see learning that way, everything changes.

Final Thought

Spiritual growth as an online student doesn’t happen by accident.

It happens when:

• your education is rooted in truth
• your environment challenges you
• and you choose to show up consistently

At Grace, you don’t just grow intellectually. You grow spiritually. Personally. Intentionally. And that kind of growth carries into every area of your life.

The post 5 Ways Online Students Grow Spiritually at Grace Christian University appeared first on Grace Christian University.

At Grace Christian University, we believe that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just an event to be remembered once a year, but a living truth that shapes every course, every conversation, and every calling we pursue. We exist to graduate courageous ambassadors for Christ who make an eternal impact in the world, and that mission is only possible because of what happened on Easter morning.

 These seven Bible verses will anchor your heart in the transforming power of the risen Christ. May they fill you with wonder, courage, and joy this Easter Sunday.

John 11:25 — The Resurrection and the Life

“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.”

Jesus spoke these words before raising Lazarus, and they ring even louder on Easter morning. Easter is the moment this promise was sealed for all of history.

1 Timothy 6:12 — Fight the Good Fight

“Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called.”

Grace’s mission is to graduate courageous ambassadors for Christ who make an eternal impact wherever they go. This verse, is rooted in the promise of eternal life. Because Christ rose, the fight of faith is never in vain, and every student who walks through our doors is called to take hold of that promise.

2 Corinthians 5:20 — Ambassadors for Christ

“We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.”

The resurrection is the ultimate reason Christians are sent into the world. A dead savior sends no one. A risen Savior sends everyone. This Easter, go as His ambassador.

Ephesians 2:8–9 — Saved by Grace

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast.”

Salvation is a free gift of God’s grace, received through faith, not by anything we do so no one can boast; Easter is the moment that gift was secured, because on the cross Jesus paid the full price for our sin and His resurrection proved grace has won. In other words, Easter is the historical event where “by grace you have been saved” became a finished reality for everyone who believes.

Matthew 28:5-6 — He Has Risen

“The angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.’”

Easter begins with this moment. Not with speculation, but with a declaration. Jesus, who was crucified, is no longer in the tomb. He is risen, just as He said He would be. This is the foundation everything else stands on. Because Christ is alive, fear no longer defines us. Because He is risen, hope is no longer uncertain.

1 Corinthians 15:57–58 — Victory & Steadfast Work

“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore … stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”

Easter produces the unshakeable confidence Grace wants in every graduate. Because Christ is risen, every act of service, every late night of study, every moment of faithful witness has eternal weight. Stand firm. The empty tomb guarantees your labor is never wasted.

Luke 24:6-7 — He Is Not Here

“He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’”

This is the moment everything turns. The stone rolled away. The tomb left empty. The words spoken that changed the course of history.

On Easter Sunday, we are standing in a reality. Jesus Christ is alive. Death has been overcome. What once seemed final has been undone by the power of God.

Closing Reflection

The risen Christ invites each of us into a life of purpose, grace, and eternal impact. As you celebrate this Easter Sunday, let these seven verses remind you of what is true: the tomb is empty, grace is real, and you have been sent.

At Grace Christian University, we pray that every student, every faculty member, and every member of our community would experience the fullness of resurrection life, not just on Easter Sunday, but in every moment that follows. May you go forth as living proof that He is risen.

He is risen indeed. Happy Easter.

The post 7 Bible Verses for Easter Sunday appeared first on Grace Christian University.

Beginning Your Journey With Clarity, Faith, and Confidence

You may be wondering what to expect in the first month of an online program at Grace. “Will I be ready?” These are normal questions for anyone beginning a new academic journey, especially when life is already full.

I remember receiving the email saying I had been accepted into my program at Grace. Little did I know that the way my family and I celebrated was just the start of celebrations to come. After the celebration, the thoughts of what if started to flood my mind.

How can I afford this? What if my teachers are mean? When will I find time to read, study, or participate? Why did I say yes?!

The good news is that your first six-week course is designed to help you settle into the rhythm of online learning while growing both academically and spiritually. From the moment my first course began, I saw how Grace intentionally supports students through the transition back into school.

Here is what many students experience during their first month.

Week One: Learning the Environment

Your first week is primarily about becoming familiar with the online classroom in BlackBoard.

You will log into your Blackboard, look around your course dashboard, and review the syllabus for each class. Most students begin by looking at three key areas:

• Weekly assignments and deadlines
• Discussion board requirements
• Reading and coursework expectations

At first, the course structure may feel unfamiliar. This is completely normal. Online learning requires a different rhythm than traditional classrooms, but most students begin to feel comfortable after navigating the system a few times.

One awesome aspect of online learning with Grace is the fact that each course also has a discussion board forum for our well-being and community. This forum is where we can solicit prayer and support for school or life all together.

The goal during this first week is not perfection. It is simply learning where everything is located, understanding expectations, and getting your feet wet with your first few assignments.

Week Two: Finding Your Study Rhythm

During the second week, many students begin discovering what their study routine will look like.

Online education allows flexibility, but flexibility works best when paired with structure. I find it helpful to set specific times during the week for coursework.

Some choose early mornings before work. Others study during quiet evening hours or during pockets of time throughout the day. I chose to study alongside my school-age children and then again after their bedtime.

The key is consistency.

Instead of waiting for large blocks of free time, successful online students learn to make steady progress throughout the week.

As Proverbs 16:3 reminds us: “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” (ESV)

When students commit their time and effort to God, even small moments of study can become meaningful steps forward.

Week Three: Growing in Confidence

By the third week, most students begin to feel more confident in their ability to manage coursework alongside daily responsibilities. This is where I learned the importance of staying one step ahead just in case you need a little cushion.

Discussion posts become easier to complete. The learning platform becomes familiar. Assignments begin to follow a recognizable pattern, and you can even work ahead.

Many students also start to see how their studies connect to their personal calling, how learning strengthens their spiritual growth. All Grace courses include opportunities for reflection, biblical integration, and practical application.

Week Four & Five: Settling Into the Journey

By the fourth week, something encouraging begins to happen. You realize you have made it over halfway through your first class and are hopefully on track and receiving encouraging and constructive feedback from your professor.

The experience that once felt new and uncertain begins to feel normal.

I wondered if I could manage school alongside my other responsibilities only to realize I was already doing it.

Assignments are being completed. Conversations are happening in discussion boards. New knowledge is being applied in everyday life.

Momentum begins to build.

As James 1:5 reminds us,

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (ESV)

The first month often reveals that students are not walking this journey alone. God is present in the process of learning.

A Few Encouraging Truths for New Students

If you are entering your first month as an online student at Grace or contemplating submitting an application, there are a few important things to remember:

1. You do not have to have everything figured out in the first week.
2. Learning a new rhythm takes time. The first month is about adjustment and growth.
3. Progress matters more than perfection.
4. Each assignment completed and each lesson learned moves you forward step by step.
5. Your education is part of your calling.
6. Returning to school is not just about earning a degree. It is about stewarding the gifts God has placed within you.

The Journey Ahead

The first thirty days often bring both challenge and encouragement. But many students quickly realize something important:

That you are capable of more than you expected.

Online education at Grace is not simply about completing courses. It is about growing in knowledge, faith, and purpose that makes you a courageous ambassador for Christ.

And the first month is only the beginning of that journey.

The post Starting Online College: What to Expect Your First Month at Grace Christian University appeared first on Grace Christian University.

The Myth of Free Time

We often imagine that education requires a season when life finally slows down, when there is more “free time.” The truth is, for most adults, that season never truly arrives.

If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. Most online students begin their Grace journey with the same thoughts. I felt the nudge to return to school when I certainly “didn’t have time.” I had a full-time job, ministry, a spouse, two children, and one on the way.

I am now a mom of four and still manage various responsibilities outside of my home on top of finishing my bachelor’s and now pursuing my master’s degree.

Every year students like me at Grace Christian University finish their degrees all while managing full lives.

So what changes?

The difference is rarely about having more hours in the day. Instead, it is about learning how to approach education differently.

How Online Students at Grace Make it Work

One of the first realizations many online students have is that they don’t just stumble upon extra time in the day. Life does not pause when you enroll in school. Work schedules still exist, and the bills have to be paid. Children still need rides, and they still fall sick from time to time. Church responsibilities continue. Meals still need to be cooked, beds made, floors mopped, you get the point.

Instead of waiting for a season with no responsibilities, successful online students learn how to integrate education into real life. Education becomes part of the rhythm rather than something separate from it.

It does require intentionality and, at times, sacrifice. To make it work, students rearrange their schedules, add efficiencies to their days, and prioritize the most important tasks. For many students at Grace, that rhythm might include early morning study sessions, quiet moments after children go to bed, or working through assignments during lunch breaks.

In my case, I didn’t remove anything from my schedule; instead, I found ways to incorporate studying into what was already established. In our home, we have a period after the kids get out of school when all of us sit down and do our classwork together. That’s just one way I’ve built studying into my daily rhythm. We make it work!

It isn’t perfect.

But it is consistent.

A Faith-Centered Environment

Another reason online students find encouragement at Grace is the integration of faith within the learning environment.

Courses are not separated from spiritual life. Scripture, reflection, and a Bible-centered worldview are integrated throughout the educational experience.

For many students, this creates something powerful. For me it created an anchor.

Education becomes not only intellectual growth but also spiritual formation.

As Proverbs 2:6 reminds us: “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” (ESV)

Learning becomes an act of stewardship and discipleship.

If you have ever said, “I just don’t have time for school,” you are not alone; you’re in good company. Many graduates once said the same thing.

What they discovered was not extra time, but a new way of approaching the time they already had.

Growth rarely begins when life becomes easier.

It often begins when you choose to step forward despite a full life.

And for many students at Grace, that step leads to something they once believed was impossible.

A finished degree.

The post From “I Don’t Have Time” To a Finished Degree: How Online Students at Grace Make It Work appeared first on Grace Christian University.

Learning Alongside a Community

One of the highlights of my experience at Grace has been learning alongside classmates who shared similar goals of serving others. Even though many of us came from different backgrounds and life experiences, we were able to encourage one another and learn from each other’s perspectives. I also appreciated the support and guidance from professors and advisors who were always willing to help, provide feedback, and challenge us to grow both personally and academically.

Perseverance Through Competing Responsibilities

One of my greatest areas of growth has been learning how to balance many responsibilities while staying committed to my education. Working full time, serving in ministry, and completing coursework was not always easy, but the process helped me develop discipline, time management, and perseverance. I also grew in confidence as I learned how to research, think critically, and apply what I learned to real-life situations.

One memorable experience during this journey was taking my laptop with me on missionary trips to Honduras. At times, I would find myself sitting on a mountaintop trying to get a Wi-Fi signal so I could connect to Blackboard and submit my assignments on time. It was not always easy, but it reminded me how committed I was to completing this journey. Looking back, I can clearly see how God guided every step and gave me the strength to continue. Through this experience, I believe He has prepared me to be an agent of change in the lives of others.

Stepping Into Purpose

When I compare where I am now to when I first started, I can clearly see how much I have grown. I feel better prepared to serve others, especially families who may need support and guidance. My education has strengthened my desire to work in family counseling, particularly helping parents who have children with special needs. I also hope to continue serving through my church and eventually help establish programs such as a soup kitchen to support those in need.

Gratitude for the Journey

Many people made an impact on me throughout this journey. My professors and advisors encouraged me to keep going even during difficult moments, and my classmates were a source of motivation and support as we learned together. Most importantly, my husband has been a great encouragement to me, and it has been a blessing that we are both graduating from Grace together. He is graduating with his Masters degree in Higher Educational Leadership.

Psalm 28:7 (NIV): “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.”

The post Learn, Grow, Serve: Following God’s Call to Serve Others – Almiria Marrero appeared first on Grace Christian University.

I am one of those adults, that almost failed high school after I started hanging with the wrong crowd. I tried to get back on track by going to college and ended up flunking my last semester (literally). I never thought of ever going back as long as I was able to pay for the needs of my then-only child.

Yet research and real-life experience tell a different story: adult learners are often uniquely positioned to succeed because of the very life experiences they believe disqualify them. I guess that is how my husband was able to remain ahead of “the game.” Being an educator himself after we married in 2017, he would harp on the fact that I had to return and finish what I started.

At the time, I just thought it would be a waste of time, energy, and most importantly, money we didn’t have. It took months of prayer and seeking God, but I ultimately decided to be obedient, not to hubby but to Him. He assured me that returning to learning was not a step backward. But that would eventually be my step into a deeper purpose.

The Myth of “Being Too Late”

One of the greatest barriers adult learners face is not ability, it is perception.

Many adults assume learning belongs to a specific age or season. I was 34 years old and had three children when I decided to return to finish what I started. Higher education research consistently shows that adult learners bring strengths traditional students are still developing:

• clearer motivation
• stronger discipline
• real-world application skills
• purpose-driven goals

Adult learners are not starting behind. We are informed. My mentality going back was all of the above, and I am grateful for the time away from studies that allowed me to grow.

What Learning Science Reveals About Consistency

Cognitive psychology highlights a principle known as the spacing effect, which shows that learning spread across consistent, shorter sessions leads to stronger long-term retention than occasional intensive study. I began to create a home rhythm that made it possible to learn at a speed that enabled me to retain information and not just breeze through.

I started with one focused hour of learning each day, which added up to several hours each week. This small change significantly improved my understanding and eventually my confidence over time. I ended my associate’s in human services on the Dean’s List!

I learned that learning is not about intensity. It is about rhythm. I did not have to go hard; I just had to keep going.

Research on deliberate practice further shows that progress occurs when individuals engage regularly with material just beyond their comfort zone, and boy, was moving directly into my bachelor’s degree just that. Those small, consistent efforts I took in one area ended up compounding into meaningful growth not just in school but in my life as a whole.

Why Adult Learners Often Succeed Online

The next big concern I had was moving into an online learning environment. I love being in community and physically with others (I am a hugger). Come to find out online learning environments uniquely support adult learners because they allow education to integrate with life rather than compete against it. Now as a wife, mother of four, full-time employee, and ministry leader, I am grateful for the flexibility online environments give me. I have also still been successful in growing and staying in community with students and staff.

Flexibility allows learners to:

• study family responsibilities
• continue working full-time
• apply knowledge immediately
• build confidence gradually

Online education is not easier, it is adaptable. And adaptability is often exactly what adult learners need.

Learning as Stewardship

The Lord taught me that learning is more than academic achievement; it is stewardship.

Luke 16:10 (ESV) reminds us:

“One who is faithful in very little is also faithful in much.”

Growth begins with small, faithful steps, consistent effort offered over time.

For some, this growth may take the form of formal education. For others, it may involve deeper discipleship or structured spiritual learning. I have had the pleasure of growing in both areas over the last several years.

Both are expressions of obedience.

Your Next Step

If you feel the desire to grow, begin small:

• dedicate one hour each week to learning
• explore educational opportunities
• join a learning-centered community
• ask questions without pressure

Growth is not about catching up. It is about moving forward, and if we are not moving forward, what are we doing with the life given to us from God?

You are not behind. You are being invited into preparation.

Whether your next step is returning to school or pursuing deeper spiritual formation, learning remains one of the most powerful ways we respond to God’s ongoing work in our lives.

Grace Christian University online programs are built for that kind of growth, and designed to fit into your life while helping you move forward with purpose, discipline, and a faith.

By Tanika Asiedu
Master of Ministry Online Program

The post You’re Not Too Late: Why Adults Thrive When They Return to Online College appeared first on Grace Christian University.

As a senior at Grace Christian University and someone who was homeschooled, I understand how homeschool students often approach learning differently. Many of us grow up in an environment that values curiosity, discussion, and faith as part of everyday education. Because of that background, I’ve seen firsthand how homeschool students can thrive at Grace and why this community is such a natural fit.

Finding Your Place in a New Community

When I arrived at Grace, I was searching for community, for purpose, for some sense of who I was and where I was headed. What I found was a campus culture that makes belonging feel almost inevitable. The diversity of people can feel overwhelming at first, but that same diversity means there is genuinely a place for everyone. Once you find your people, the campus starts feeling like home.

Grace has a community and curriculum that truly fosters growth. One of the most meaningful parts of my experience has been the relationships between staff, faculty, and students. As someone who could easily blend into the background, Grace made that nearly impossible.

One person who exemplifies this investment in students’ lives is business professor McMurray. Even though I’ve only had her for three classes, she recognized my interests right away. She intentionally shaped conversations to connect what we were learning in class to my goals in the business world.

If you’re looking for people who will point you toward Christ while also helping you see how your faith connects to your future, Grace creates space for that.

Growing in Confidence and Belief

Another big draw for me to Grace was the community. I was really shy when starting college and young. This meant I wasn’t really confident in who I was or what I believed. It is hard not to be in the community at Grace. Most of my friends graduated last year, and I know I have found a great community here because not only are those who graduated still my closest friends outside of school, but I am still building new friendships and community in my last semesters. Along with this, the professors and curriculum firmly stand in what they believe from the lens of scripture, while wholeheartedly preparing you to find what you believe by equipping you with all the tools you need to find answers.

Prepared for What Comes Next

Coming from homeschooling, it can be easy to feel unprepared for the professional world. That’s one area where Grace stands out. Every class is grounded in a biblical foundation while also helping students understand how that applies in real, practical ways. For example, as a business major, I’m learning how to do business well from a biblical worldview. That same approach carries into every field of study. Each course takes time to connect what you are learning to how it functions in the professional world, so students graduate equipped, confident, and ready for what comes next.

Grace does an excellent job preparing students for the professional world after college. One way this is evident is through the many on-campus job opportunities. I have experienced this firsthand through my role as a student ambassador in the enrollment office. In this position, I regularly speak with prospective students and their families, answering questions and helping guide them through the college decision process. Through this experience, I have developed strong communication skills and gained a clearer understanding of what students and parents are really looking for. For homeschool students in particular, opportunities like this provide a valuable bridge into professional environments while still in college.

Support Systems That Help You Succeed

Our campus has completely free tutoring for students in many different forms, whether students need someone to help them through concepts, or if you need someone to keep you accountable for getting the work done in the new structure, or simply sitting with you while you get homework done in case you have questions. One way tutoring helped me a lot was with my math homework. I was taught math in a very different style than I needed when I got to college, so I used that for quite a few weeks.

A homeschooler who is new to the classroom setting and is having a hard time adjusting to this style of learning may need more help figuring out how to function in this new way of learning. Another student might not know anything about the Bible but has found themselves at a Christian university, so they may need help in the Bible and theology core credits. Another great resource, along with our tutoring service, is our “Student Success Center.” This center provides a success coach for every student, whether they are failing every class or have a 4.0 grade average. These success coaches are there for whatever a student might need to adjust to life in college, especially if the college structure is not something that makes sense naturally to you as a student. Moving from being home to being alone is a big adjustment for anyone. They are there to help with time management, help in professional development, or anything you might need.

Why Homeschool Students Often Excel

Some students come from a public school structure with a strict, clearly mapped-out schedule. College, however, often requires students to manage their own time, rely on personal discipline, and build their own routines. For many homeschool students, this transition feels more natural. It certainly was for me, since I was already used to learning at my own pace and managing my time at home. At the same time, that independence can still feel intimidating. Adjusting to a new environment and taking full ownership of your schedule is not always easy, no matter your background. This is where Grace’s Student Success Center becomes an invaluable resource, offering support and guidance to help students stay on track and succeed.

Grace, while being a good fit for both public schoolers and homeschoolers. The part of Grace I am trying to highlight is the personal feel; it is a small community and is individual to every student because of it. Every professor knows your name, and you find your people. This allows for work and growth to be focused and fostered directly on the individual students in the way they personally need, gaining the life experience and focus to step into the real world after school as an ambassador for Christ rooted in the Word of God.

From homeschool to Grace—start here.

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A Deeper Faith Through My Time at Grace

Some of the highlights of my time at Grace were the moments when learning moved beyond theory and began shaping how I see people and the world around me. Courses in psychology, theology, and research challenged me to think critically while also strengthening my faith. I especially appreciate how Grace consistently integrates a Christian worldview into academic study. Being raised in the Greek Orthodox tradition gave me a strong foundation of faith, but my time at Grace deepened my understanding of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and strengthened my personal relationship with Him. That growth has profoundly impacted my academic life and, very much, my relationships with my husband, my children, and those I serve.

Perseverance Through Difficult Seasons

This journey was not completed in an easy season of life. During my time at Grace, I walked through the loss of both my father and my father-in-law while taking care of two elderly and recently widowed mothers, balancing the responsibilities of family life as a mother and as the wife of a California fire captain, and, not least, my professional responsibilities in home health and hospice leadership. More recently, the agency where I worked for over a decade unexpectedly closed its doors just before graduation. There were moments when continuing felt overwhelming, yet each challenge reminded me that perseverance is not only personal strength but often God’s grace sustaining us when we feel weakest. Looking back, I see that those difficult seasons became some of the most formative.

The People Who Shaped the Journey

Many people at Grace made a lasting impact on me. Professor Timothy Lampley gave me confidence in my academic voice by referring to me as a “scholar” at a time when I felt uncertain. Dr. Janice Schregardus and Dr. Dawn Rodgers-DeFouw consistently challenged me to think critically and refine my work through mentorship rather than criticism. Professor Timothy Rumley strengthened my graduate-level writing and taught me that clear thinking matters more than complicated language. Dr. Scott Myers affirmed the depth of my theological reflection and reminded me that scholarship can serve the Church. My success coach, Dr. Alicia McCullar, offered encouragement, practical guidance, and prayer during some of the most difficult moments of my journey. Professor Emilee Prins also played an important role by guiding me through both my associate and bachelor’s capstone experiences, helping me bring together everything I had learned and complete these final stages with clarity and confidence.

I also want to mention Professor Thomas D. Schwartz, though his impact was anything but small. He is an incredible professor who deeply shaped my understanding of who God is. In one of my papers, he wrote that God had given me “a very fine intellect” and that it was clear I loved the Lord with all my heart and mind. His encouragement meant a great deal to me, and it is another reminder of how many professors at Grace helped shape our growth along the way. Each of these individuals helped shape my confidence as a scholar and contributed to my academic and spiritual development.

Stepping Forward with Purpose

Compared to when I began, I now feel more prepared academically and, most importantly, personally. Grace helped refine my ability to think critically, communicate clearly, and integrate psychology with faith. It also clarified my calling toward Christian counseling and strengthened my desire to serve others with compassion and wisdom. I leave this program with a deeper understanding that education is not simply about gaining knowledge but about allowing that knowledge to shape our character and purpose. I am also grateful to you all, my classmates. Even though we study online and live in different places, the discussions, encouragement, and shared experiences created a sense of community that made the journey less isolating. Seeing others persevere through their own challenges reminded me that we were walking this road together.

Equipped to Step Forward and Serve

If I had to summarize my experience in one sentence, it would be this: Grace Christian University did not just educate me; it strengthened my faith, refined my voice as a scholar, and prepared me to step forward and serve others with greater wisdom, humility, and compassion. As I step into the next season, I hold on to the promise of Scripture (and I hope and pray that you will all do the same): “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6, English Standard Version Bible, 2016).

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