Gustavus Adolphus College

I was involved in a youth branch of the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce called YLVC. I was also a part of the varsity swim team, A Cappella Choir, and Jazz Choir.

Initially, I did not choose Gustavus, nor had I ever visited before coming for freshman orientation. What drew me to Gustavus was the how people described the close-knit community of Gustavus, strong chemistry program, and the prospect of swimming for one of the strongest Men’s Division III Swimming teams in the nation.

I am involved with Gustavus Swimming and Diving, the Servant Leadership Program, LSAMP, and Student Senate. I also work for the Chemistry department as a tutor and laboratory teaching assistant, as well as for the Student Activities Office as the Building Operations Manager for the Campus Center. I love being involved in so many different things at Gustavus, because each activity represents one of my interests.

The course that was most memorable for me was my FTS: Heroes and Sheroes with Dr. Barbara Simpson. It was a great way to get adjusted to college. I also liked Physical Chemistry and Quantitative Analysis in the Chemistry department. It has been awesome getting to the core classes in the Chemistry major, because now I have a little more of an idea of what's going on!

What food isn’t good at the Market Place? However, my top favorites are the Chicken Kiev, Chicken Monterrey, or the Chicken Parmigiana.

The first year is always daunting for anyone in college. My FTS professor helped make the transition a lot easier by having dinner/movie parties for us during the school year. Even though she is not my advisor anymore, I still stop by and have wonderful conversations about school and plans after college.

My ideal job would be to become a dentist. I have also entertained the thought of doing volunteer service through the ELCA, specifically Young Adults in Global Missions, or any other non-profit organization out there before I apply to Dental School!

My advice would be to explore all options possible. Do not limit your choices due to the potential cost for some schools. Apply for as many local/national scholarships as possible. Don’t stress about the decision because where you ultimately end up is the place that you are meant to be. And finally, CHOOSE GUSTAVUS.

My favorite Gustavus tradition is painting the rock. It is a special event that really brings together a group of friends or even an organization on campus. I also like the closeness of the swim team in my years at Gustavus, and the traditions that carry on throughout the sport here.