In many ways, summer is still in full swing, but soon Davenport University, with campus locations across Michigan, will come alive with students, faculty and the promise of new beginnings. Davenport’s main residential campus is the W.A. Lettinga Grand Rapids Campus, and the fall move-in date for students is set for September 3.

While incoming students or those still searching for a college home can get a general sense of what Davenport’s Grand Rapids campus is like by checking out its website, to see the best picture, you need to visit in person. 

Students who tour Davenport’s Grand Rapids Campus get a glimpse of what day-to-day life might look like as a Davenport University Panther. 

Nathan Cunningham, assistant director of high school admissions at Davenport, said visiting campus helps prospective students ensure the university is a perfect fit. “An in-person visit allows students to visualize their future at Davenport by seeing the smaller-sized classrooms and walking through the housing suites, which are pretty incredible,” he said. “Davenport’s small class sizes, personal support and career preparation assistance are a few of the university’s selling points. Plus, there is always a variety of on-campus activities to choose from so students won’t get bored.”

Tommy Johnson, resident advisor (RA) and Kayleigh Kuhse, Housing employee, both agree that a campus visit is the perfect way to get a feel for all that Davenport has to offer. 

Tommy Johnson 

Major: Business administration/marketing

Tommy Johnson will be a senior at Davenport when classes begin in September. He is a student, track and field athlete and an RA. 

He describes Davenport as a place where students can earn a degree while preparing for a successful career. “I appreciate that Davenport offers flexible scheduling, which is a good fit for students, like me, who are balancing school, work and other responsibilities,” Johnson said. “I also like Davenport’s career-focused programs, and its emphasis on gaining real-world experience.”

Johnson said he has enjoyed being an RA because of the strong sense of community that comes from living and working in Davenport’s housing community. “I also like the leadership aspect of being an RA and my role in getting students involved on campus.”

What do you like best about DU? I really like the size of Davenport’s campus. It has a personal feel, which is important to me because I enjoy seeing familiar faces on and around campus. I also like all of the events that take place on campus, the clubs students can join, and Friday night gatherings in the Sneden Meeting Rooms. 

What are your favorite spots on campus? My favorite place to do homework is definitely the College of Business because it has so many quiet places to study, and it’s also where the Hub is. But my favorite spot overall is the bridge on the edge of campus. It’s a beautiful and peaceful place to unwind. 

What advice would you give to students preparing to move to DU? I tell new students to be open to new friendships and opportunities. This is the start of their adult lives, so I tell them to be smart and make good choices, but also have a memorable time. They should take it all in and make the most of it. I also encourage them not to get discouraged in trying times, but to have hope and faith in their future.

 

Kayleigh Kuhse 

Major: Health and Human Services case management

Kaleigh Kuhse knows from personal experience how beneficial college campus visits can be. She first learned about Davenport from her mother, who is an alumna. After visiting campus, she knew Davenport was the right choice for her.

“Davenport is perfect for me,” said Kuhse. “I attended a small high school and knew I wanted a college with a smaller campus that was easy to navigate, but one where I could build a large community, and that’s what I found at Davenport. With so many campus events, it’s easy to get to know people and have fun while getting an education. Coming to Davenport has been the best decision of my life. I have learned and grown so much, and have stepped out of my comfort zone to really put myself out there,” she said. 

Kuhse has been heavily involved with Davenport’s Housing Department for two years as a housing assistant and a conference assistant. 

“Working for Housing has helped me become more involved in Campus Life and helped me get to know more people. It has also given me an opportunity to help others,” she said. 

What do you like best about DU? The size of campus and the awesome housing units. 

What are your favorite spots on campus? I like going to softball games because they are fun to watch. I also enjoy going to Grocery Bingo, stressbuster events, buying fresh produce at the Fresh Market Pop Up shop, and playing in and refereeing pickleball tournaments.

What advice would you give to students preparing to move to DU? I tell new students to: 

• Attend as many campus events as possible. 
• Get outside your comfort zone. Trying new things will help you grow and learn about yourself.
• Get to know those around you because they might just become your new best friend.
• Create and participate in study groups because they will help you get through tough classes. 
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help because everyone at DU is here to help you and wants you to succeed. 

 

Must-see stops during a visit to Davenport’s W.A. Lettinga Grand Rapids Campus: 

• Center for Learning and Engagement (CLE): The CLE is located in the Academic Building, and is home to the Center for Campus Life, which includes Housing, Campus Life and Registered Student Organizations. Also here, you’ll find Office of Career and Professional Development. It’s also a great place to study or collaborate on projects with other students.
• Tour Davenport’s apartment- style residence Halls.
• Dining options: the Caf, the Hub and the Den 

• Student Activity Center, a state-of-the-art fitness and recreational facility open to all students. It has a rock climbing wall, pool tables, a fitness center, basketball courts, an E-Sports arena and more.
• Even if you aren’t a business student, take time to walk through the beautiful Business Building. Here you’ll find a variety of comfortable spaces to lounge and meet with friends, as well as quiet, private areas to study.
• Keith and Kathryn Klingenberg Wellness Center, where students can access free mental health support and see a nurse practitioner for non-emergent medical care.
• Panther athletic facilities
• Tyrus R. Wessell Campus Store –  pick up some DU gear.

 

Must-watch campus visit video series:

Sneak peek into campus

Amenities

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