ALECIA GAZZOLA
Associate Director of Admission
Direct: (507) 933-6171
Toll-free: 1-800-GUSTAVUS
Territory:
Life before Gustavus
I grew up in Southwest Minneapolis in the same house where my parents still reside and where I will forever call "home." Over the years from youth, throughout college, and beyond, I've kept busy playing soccer, dancing (ballet, tap, and jazz), traveling, living in Massachusetts, and deeply valuing time with my family and friends.
What are your professional/work interests?
I am passionate about working in admission because I truly enjoy working with students as they navigate their college search. This can be an overwhelming process, and is unique to each individual, so it's important to be a thoughtful and informative resource. I especially enjoy working with programs that assist underrepresented students gain access to college.
What is your best college search tip?
Get to know your admission counselors! Attend their visits to your career center, check in with them at college fairs, email them, and meet with them when you visit their campus. We are here to help you demystify the college search process and to provide you with as much information as possible for you to make an informed and confident college decision. In turn, it allows for the opportunity for counselors to make a personal connection with a paper application.
What do you learn from interacting with Gustavus students?
It is quite humbling being surrounded by Gustavus students. Their talent, versatility and energy, as well as their ability to balance a full schedule of schoolwork with co-curricular activities, continually amazes me. I have learned that you can play hard and work hard, achieve excellence and balance, and all with great modesty.
What do you value most about working at Gustavus?
I feel very lucky to be working with such wonderful people who are full of so much energy and passion about Gustavus and the greater world in which we live. It’s contagious! Also, what a bonus to be able to attend all of the various campus events and activities.
What are your hobbies?
Eating-- a necessity and a hobby; I love food. I enjoy cooking at home with my husband, trying new restaurants while frequenting the tried and true, and exploring a region or country through its food. (Most recent traveling and eating trip: Italy!) In addition to travel and food, I like to camp, hike, play tennis, take pictures...
How have you been involved in your community?
St. Peter is such a neat community. So many parades throughout the year, familiar and friendly faces all over town, and some wonderful local businesses, such as the St. Peter Food Co-op of which I'm a member. Though I will always consider myself a "city girl" at heart, this small-town living is truly special.
What is your favorite Gustavus tradition?
Gustie athletic events are a favorite. Not only do we have incredibly talented student-athletes, but we have some of the best fans in the country! I also look forward to the annual International Festival held on campus. This is when I can sample foods from all over the world made by our students on campus! (Yes, food again.)
