Academics
Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota is full of "passionate individuals exploring their interests and working to improve the community while [simultaneously] investing in their future." Students here feel lucky to receive a "liberal arts education" that's replete with "strong academic programs," most notably within "music" and the "science[s]." They also highlight their many "opportunities for volunteer work and internships through the large alumni network." "Small class sizes allow for frequent class discussions and personal engagement with the material." Additionally, undergrads at Gustavus speak glowingly of their "incredible," "devoted," and "accessible" professors. As one student explains, "The staff here is amazing because every professor genuinely wants you to succeed, and they will do whatever they can to see that happen." A fellow undergrad adds, "Professors are often passionate about the transfer of knowledge, and encourage students to apply the knowledge they receive to greater world experiences, effectively preparing students for a life beyond college." All in all, Gustavus Adolphus provides a "challenging and hands-on education with peers and professors that support [you] and challenge [you] to be successful."
Student Body
Undergrads at Gustavus Adolphus, known among students as "Gusties," lead hectic, "busy" lives. As one student explains, "It is a common Gustie trait that we are involved to the point of having to be at two places at once." The college sponsors a tremendous number of "sports teams…clubs, productions, dance[s], work study [programs], and many events throughout the week…with different themes." For example, "this month is Harry Potter themed so we had [a] 'great hall feast' in the cafeteria and OWLs trivia." Gustavus also "provides lots of FREE activities for students [including]…guest speakers, big concerts (with performers such as Timeflies and Gavin DeGraw), an annual President's Ball [and] Relay for Life." Of course, students are also quite adept at making their own fun. In the winter months, many undergrads can be found "traying (sledding on trays) down one of the hills on campus." And when they want more of a break from collegiate life, "students will often travel to Mankato which is only a 20-minute drive to visit the mall or eat at popular, well-known restaurants."
Campus Life
Undergraduates at Gustavus Adolphus boast of being part of a "close community" filled with "welcoming" students. Indeed, these Gusties note that their peers are "open-minded" and "respectful." As one happy student describes, "Walking around campus, I recognize so many friendly faces who stop and ask how I am doing. There is a sense of all of us wanting to succeed together." And a fellow classmate adds, "There is not a door on campus that won't be held open for you!" Of course, it certainly helps that the Gustavus Adolphus attracts a "wide range of students from those who participate in the arts, to the political, to the jocks, to the partiers, and everywhere in between." This range of interests helps assure that virtually "anyone who comes here can find a group to fit in with," and it allows the college to truly "feel like a family."
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