You’ve made it to grad school, and the pace has picked up. You’re balancing classes, a job, maybe a family—your life feels like it’s operating in fast-forward. And in the middle of it all, you may be wondering: Do my professors really see me? Do they care?

At some universities, graduate students can start to feel like just another email in the inbox. But at NNU, things are different. Our professors don’t just care about your academic progress—they care about you. As a whole person. In fact, one of the most consistent things we hear from our graduate students is how surprised—and grateful—they are for how deeply invested their faculty are in their lives and success.

Professors Who Know Your Name—And Your Story

NNU professors don’t sit behind closed office doors or hide behind grading rubrics. They walk alongside you. They pray for you. They remember your kids’ names. And they reach out—unprompted—when they sense you might be struggling.

Yes, they’re highly qualified scholars, researchers and professionals. But more importantly, they’re mentors and encouragers who believe in doing education in relationship.

What it Looks Like When Professors Care (NNU Style)

Here’s what that care might look like at NNU—even in a fully online course or a rigorous graduate seminar:

1. Personalized Feedback that Builds You Up – Our faculty don’t just grade—they guide. Expect encouraging, detailed responses that both challenge and affirm you.
2. Check-Ins That Aren’t on the Syllabus – NNU professors often reach out just to see how you’re doing. It’s not unusual to get a message asking how your job search, family or spiritual life is going.
3. Real-World Opportunities Tailored to You – Whether it’s a conference, publication, internship or job lead, our faculty actively connect students to opportunities that match their goals.
4. High Expectations with High Support – You’ll be pushed to grow, but never left to flounder. Our professors walk with you through the hard parts and celebrate your wins.
5. Presence Beyond the Classroom – Need prayer? Advice? A pep talk? A reality check? They’re here for that, too.

What Do I Do If a Professor Seems Distant?

Sometimes, even in a caring environment, you may still feel a little lost. If that’s the case:

• Reach Out – Our faculty don’t expect you to have it all together. They welcome honest conversations and are honored when students invite them into their journey.
• Build Your Support Network – NNU’s graduate community includes advisors, peers and staff who are ready to come alongside you.
• Lean into the Resources – From academic support to spiritual life resources, you don’t have to go it alone.

And of course, if you ever feel something is off, we take your safety and experience seriously. NNU has clear policies and a commitment to a healthy, respectful community.

This is What “We Do College Different” Means

Graduate school at NNU isn’t just about getting through a program. It’s about becoming who you’re called to be—with professors who believe in your potential and walk the road with you.

So yes—your professors do care. In ways that might surprise you, sustain you and shape you for a lifetime.