Gustavus Adolphus College is a private, coeducational, liberal arts college in the town of St. Peter, Minnesota. It has been around since it was founded in 1862 by Swedish Americans. Gustavus is not only a school with a beautiful campus, but it is known for its strength academically. College is a time for a collection of experiences both inside and outside the classroom and Gustavus definitely honors that. The thing that personally made me fall in love with Gustavus was that it has an incredible sense of community. Everyone around you is your friend, family, and fellow "Golden Gustie."
After speaking to multiple people around campus I composed a list of Just "Gustie" things:
1. "Traying."
Nothing is quite like a ride down "Old Main" hill on a tray from the "Caf" with your friends.
2. The Campus Cats.
Cooper & Nemo! It is always a day maker when you come across one of them. Everybody loves the campus cats!
3. Having to explain to people where Gustavus is.
If you are a Gustie I am guessing that you have already had this conversation 579834824 times. At least I have:
Random Person: "Where do you go to school?"
Gustie: "Gustavus Adolphus College!"
Person: "Where is that?"
Gustie: "It's in St. Peter, Minnesota."
Person: "Well, where is that?"
Gustie: "Uhh it's about ten minutes from Mankato."
You soon find out that the ONLY people who know where Gustavus is are those who attended GAC themselves.
4. Christmas In Christ Chapel.
Every year 300 students, faculty, and staff bring the program to life through the use of music, dance, spoken word, and the visual arts for over 5000 audience members. If you go to Gustavus chances are you are either in the program or are watching it.
5. Truly Experiencing "Death Hill."
Many have fallen...well ok almost everyone has fallen. To those who haven't I wish you good luck, I am sure your time is coming soon. Be careful Gusties!
6. "Grib" Shopping!
If you are a Gustie and haven't been "shopping" on Gribly yet I don't know what you are doing.
7.Being able to relate to this.
8. The Square Dance.
Are you even a Gustie if you didn't go to the square dance to meet your "soulmate?"
9. Chapel break.
Every day from 10:00-10:20 instead of sitting in a class you are either going to chapel, getting breakfast, coffee, sleeping, etc.
10. Spinning The Letter Sculpture.
Do you dare spin the sculpture in front of the "Lib" to find out your grade?
11. The Nobel Conference.
For two days instead of classes you have the opportunity to witness preeminent scientists, theologians, and ethicists to discuss deep questions at the intersection of science and society.
12. Going "Diving."
If you haven't danced it out in "The Dive" (The old swimming pool) with your friends on a Friday or Saturday night what have you been doing?
13. The "Arb."
You can agree that the Arb is probably the most beautiful place on campus and is the best place to go "mocking" or on a night walk with friends.
14. The Gus Bus.
15. The Food!
Frost-your-owns, Gyros, Mac & Cheese, Insomnia Cookies, Banana Bread, Caesar salad Monday, Midnight Express... do I even have to say anymore?
