Graceland University (IA)

Graceland University is “a small school with high morals” and a “family-oriented atmosphere” in a small Iowa town (though the School of Nursing is located in Independence, Missouri). Affiliated with the Community of Christ (formerly known as the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints), the school promotes “closeness, community, acceptance, and growth” in “all aspects of a college education.” Students appreciate the fact that “Graceland does not use any teacher’s assistants” and “professors take the time to get to know the students and take interest in their success.” However, some would prefer a “more challenging” curriculum. Students agree that the halls are “the school’s greatest strength”; thanks to them, “no one is left out and there are always people there if you need help.” “The one thing I enjoy the most about this school is the relationships I have with my professors,” says a sophomore. “Most create close bonds with students and really care about your welfare and success.” Graceland’s “very personable” administrators “take the time to get to know the students” as well.

Graceland is “close knit” and “has a wonderful, welcoming community vibe”: “You can get to know everyone.” Of course, that means that “everybody knows everything about everybody,” but “you get used to that.” While “there are a lot of religious students,” there “is a high level of tolerance for those who do not fit into the mainstream.” The majority of students are “outgoing, friendly, [and] very approachable.” Graceland does have a “very diverse campus” with students from over 40 different countries. “There are so many different people from all over the world, and it’s amazing how everyone seems to get along with one another,” reports one student. “People are so nice and friendly,” agrees an international student.

The “very beautiful” campus “has a friendly atmosphere” and “a strong residence life program.” Greek life is nonexistent; instead, a House System promotes “an amazing sense of community” for all students. Extracurricular activities abound. “It is a small school so anyone can get involved with anything.” For diversions, Graceland “brings a lot of entertainment to campus such as comedians, dances, and hypnotists.” “Dances, the Wednesday-night movie, [and] sports” are popular social activities, and all strictly prohibit “drinking, smoking, and drugs.” “No overnight guests of the opposite sex” are allowed in halls, either. Some report that their “social life revolves around the one bar in town,” while others prefer the “less popular [but] fun alcoholand smoke-free club called Choices.” Though Lamoni is a “small town,” students skirt the blues by taking “road trips to Des Moines or Kansas City.”