Student Life Archives

An Ode to Hillsdale

Hillsdale in springtime is a place with so much beauty to behold. This is a poetic tribute from Victoria Kelly, ’24, to her beloved college.

A Moment Years in the Making

On March 20, 2022, Hillsdale’s Mock Trial team made program history by securing a spot at the National Championship Tournament. After months and years of hard work, we finally earned our moment of glory.

Respectful Debate: A Hillsdale Tradition

Ask a Hillsdale student to defend their beliefs on a topic, and you’ll find them prepared. Hillsdale’s culture of critical analysis sparks debates that are often intense, but students don’t argue—instead, they listen to each other and learn from differing viewpoints, leaving every interaction with deeper interest and understanding.

Winter in Vogue

Here’s some advice to help you arrive at class not only without hypothermia, but with style. From layers, to sweaters, to pants and coats, your winter style can be more than just a statement against the cold–it can represent your personality and creativity.

Exploring Michigan and Beyond on a Student Budget

Four years means four fall breaks, four spring breaks, four Thanksgiving breaks, eight reading days, and all of that means dozens of opportunities to explore the beautiful state of Michigan and beyond.

Wearing Confidence with Style

By the end of her first semester, the students at Hillsdale College had become friends who encouraged Katrin to blossom in her self-confidence. Her growth in courage is reflected in the development of her unique clothing style, including her grandmother’s brooch.

Nourished by Giving: What Volunteerism Taught Me About Love

Given Hillsdale’s challenging curriculum, it can be easy for students to focus solely on developing their minds. With the motto “service above self,” Hillsdale’s volunteer programs encourage students to look beyond themselves and develop their souls as well.

Snow and the Iron Lady: Thatcherball at Hillsdale

Thatcherball is a time-honored winter activity for the men of Hillsdale. Played in the dead of night after the first major snow of the semester, the sport centers on the statue of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.

Fighting for Life in Fort Lauderdale

While most students headed home for Christmas break, some flew to Florida to support the pro-life cause. Working with the Susan B. Anthony List, they spent a week knocking on doors, talking to voters, and advocating for the rights of the unborn.

Faith and Friendship: The Grotto at Hillsdale

The Grotto, a small off-campus house, serves as the faith hub for Hillsdale’s Catholic population. Students, including many members of other faith traditions, gather there to pray, worship God, listen to speakers, and just hang out.

Finding Friends in Unexpected Ways

Whether it’s through losing a tire on the freeway or playing a three-part piano rendition of the Pink Panther theme, unanticipated friendships at Hillsdale form in many ways.

From the Monastery to Hillsdale

Colton Duncan, ’23, first came to Hillsdale in 2012. After his freshman year, though, he decided to enter seminary. Now, back at Hillsdale as house director of Niedfeldt Residence, he is looking to complete his degree in classics and international business.