I chose Graceland because I grew up in Lamoni, Iowa and was not yet interested in leaving. But, looking back, I would choose Graceland again because 1) the culture is so strongly positive and you're always welcome, 2) the liberal arts education makes you a more well-rounded individual to be prepared to enter the world, and 3) because the education experience that gives you such close 1:1 access to your professors is quite unique amongst American universities.
Being part of athletics, Residence Life, Student Government, the CSIT department, and many other involvements allowed me to seek leadership opportunities that all significantly attributed to my personal growth. The relationships I made taught me new perspectives and challenged me to pursue excellence. Those opportunities and connections proved to be invaluable and have helped set me up for success going forward.
What I like the most about the CSIT program is the hands-on experience, from building LEGO Mindstorm robots, to building a computer, and the close relationships you can build between your professors.
