Gustavus Adolphus College

Life before Gustavus was full of twists and turns for me. I applied and was accepted to a boarding school in which I later attended at the age of 14. Being away from home allowed me plenty of opportunities to explore a lot of activities in northern Wisconsin including, skiing, kayaking and hiking. This also allowed me a chance to focus on obtaining leadership awards in both Girl Scouting (Gold Award) and Venturing (Silver and Ranger Awards). My school was small in size, which allowed me the chance to play varsity volleyball and softball and to manage basketball.

I chose Gustavus for a few reasons. The main reason why I chose Gustavus was because when I walked on the campus last spring I could not help but feel welcomed. The admissions office made me feel like I was more than just another applicant. They made me feel like I was wanted here at Gustavus. The students were also welcoming and friendly and the professors were very outgoing and caring towards the students. Last, Gustavus provided me the chance to be close to my family. This was something very important to me when choosing colleges.

I am involved in a good mixture of activities here on campus. They include Student Senate, Women's Club Rugby, Tri-Beta, Study Buddies and life guarding. I would have to say that rugby and Student Senate take up the majority of my time. I see them as two of my greatest accomplishments here at Gustavus. I would also say that they are my two greatest passions as well. I find student government a key role at a successful college and I find rugby to be a great form of relaxation and just pure fun.

My favorite academic experience has been my 8am biology lecture. I never thought that I would enjoy an 8am class in my life. However, my professor can make anything funny, whether he is personifying different plants or making fun of himself for the sake of humoring the class. He accomplishes this all while creating an educational and fun environment.

My favorite food in the market place would have to be the curried potato lentil soup with a little bit of tofu added in. It's my favorite because it is just bursting with a unique flavor in every bite.

I have visited most of my professors at least once if not more outside of class. Many times for help, but others just because I have found out that many of my professors have so many other interesting things to share. Their minds are full with wisdom past my years. If I had the time I would just spend hours listening to them.

My dream job would to be to work for either the World Health Organization (WHO) or the Center for Disease Control (CDC). I have been interested in epidemiology and immunology since I was a freshman in high school. I feel that by working for these non-profit organizations that I can truly make a difference in this world. Someday I hope to work for either of these organizations in a third world country where my work is really needed.

Visit colleges and meet the people that create the community of that particular college. It is truly the people that make up a school. Good professors lead to an intriguing education and good people lead to an all around balanced college experience. Visiting the campus is also important because you can truly see what resources there are available as well as how remarkably beautiful campuses like Gustavus are.

My favorite Gustavus tradition would have to be "traying" in the middle of winter, especially at night. It is a great time to get together with your friends and even possibly meet new friends. All while doing something that reminds us that we are still kids at heart.

abrock@gustavus.edu