GROVE CITY, Pa. – On Aug. 24, Grove City College welcomed the largest freshman class in its history, according to Director of Admissions Jeff Mincey. Making up the class of 2010, 333 men and 340 women came from 36 states and the District of Columbia. Other facts and figures include:

• Average GPA: 3.75
• Average SAT: 1280, tying a record high (two freshmen scored perfect 1600s)
• Average ACT: 28
• 77 valedictorians and 28 salutatorians
• 19 National Merit Scholarship Finalists 
• 55 percent in the top 10 percent of high school class
• 77 percent in the top 20 percent of high school class
• 4 percent served as student body presidents
• 18 percent played varsity athletics
• 24 percent were involved in student council 
• 49 percent were active in missions
• 65 percent were members of National Honor Society 
• 94 percent some sort of community service in high school
• 20 percent were involved in marching band

Among male students, the most popular declared major is liberal arts, followed closely by engineering. The most popular major for female students is also liberal arts, followed by the sciences. Many of these students will also eventually earn teaching degrees in their courses of study.

After move-in, freshmen have more than a week of learning and social activities planned to help transition them to college life. Under the direction of Vice President for Student Life and Learning Dr. Jean-Noel Thompson, the office has added several new activities, including studying and note-taking workshops and a huge new student event followed by a procession to Thorn Field to the football home opener on Sept. 9.

Overall, the Grove City College student population of about 2,450 students represents 41 states, plus the District of Columbia, and 10 foreign countries. Ninety-one percent of freshmen return for their sophomore year, a national high.