New Student at Grace Bible College Shares Joys and Challenges Being 800 Miles From Home

Grace Bible College student experience: I have come from the state of West Bengal to Maharashtra—two states with completely different languages, cultural traditions, and food. I was worried how I would adjust to such a different place, but I was accepted as part of the GBC family.

Every staff member shows concern and care towards each student and helps us in our needs. If anyone gets sick, we are taken care of, and Mrs. Grace, the Principal’s wife, makes sure that we take proper medication and rest well so that we get well soon. I feel safe and comfortable here.

Most of the students are from other states and face one common problem as I do—language. But this being an English-medium college, we are encouraged to learn and speak in English. For that also the college takes care. We have special English speaking and grammar classes three days a week where Mrs. Grace teaches us, making sure that we learn to speak correctly. She helps no matter how many times we ask her for help. I have improved a little in my speaking and feel happy to learn it.

The food served here is different than what we eat in our state, but I was happy to have a new diet because it is very nourishing and healthy.

I am really enjoying my classes. It is a wonderful experience to know that I have so much to learn that I didn’t know before coming here. The past month has really changed my perspective toward Bible school. At Grace Bible College, we are not only strengthened with book knowledge, but we are also taught practical things—like interacting with people, leading worship services and other events, and above all, disciplining ourselves to be better human beings.

I am so grateful and thankful to the Lord for bringing me here. I look forward to learning many interesting things in the days to come.

—Sathi Sankata, freshman at Grace Bible College in the 2024–25 school year.