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Gustavus Adolphus College Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

See Gustavus Adolphus College reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending Gustavus Adolphus College. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free Gustavus Adolphus College reviews, or contribute your own Gustavus Adolphus College review if you're a current student there.

  • 9 out of 9 people found this review useful.

    Ashlie from Duluth, MN

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The classes offered at Gustavus are well structured but also very fun and interesting. Most of the classes are based off of class participation which allows for students to give their opinions and ask questions even in the middle of a lecture. Although the classes are challenging, especially those that are specific to a certain major, the professors are very open and are available at different times during the week to offer help and further explanation. The pace of the classes within a semester is sometimes overwhelming but at the same time it is possible to keep up with everything with the help of the many study tools available on campus such as the tutors and the library. The size of the classes are wonderful because students learn the names of the other students in class and have the opportunity to have one-on-one discussions with the professor without the professor not knowing that the student is in their class.
    Am enjoying being here

    Gustavus is a very warm environment with the campus being a smaller one. Sometimes it becomes very repetitive if a student does not vary their extracurricular activities but there are always a lot of activities that go on during the week and weekends that provide opportunities to expand knowledge and find new interests. The location of Gustavus is somewhat remote because St. Peter seems like a small town but in truth it is stretched out and Mankato is only a fifteen minute drive away which provides off-campus activities. The school also provides activities which, for a small fee, are open to the entire campus such as going to a Twins game or going apple picking in the fall. Some of the most popular places on campus are the Arboretum, the Caf (where they serve excellent food), and the Lund Center. Lund is the health and fitness center so there are workout rooms, a pool and a hot tub and sauna which is open to everyone to work out or just relax.
    Bang for the buck

    Although Gustavus is one of the higher priced schools, the education received here is also of a higher standing. The professors are well-prepared and readily available and the classes offered are not only challenging but interesting. There are many different majors for all types of people who have different goals in life and the classes available are well thought out. The faculty and classes prepare students for their career and for functioning in life in the future.
    Tips for prospective students

    One tip is not to be scared off by the price. There are plenty of scholarships and grants available to help reduce the amount a student needs to actually pay. Also, don't come into Gustavus necessarily set on one area of study but use the first year to explore different areas because there may be something that becomes more appealing and then there is no committment made. If Gustavus is your choice and you do come here, use the resources available, such as the career center and health services and join clubs and groups and activities that seem interesting. Becoming involved in even just one activity will help make your first year less overwhelming.
    Great for these types of students

    Gustavus is a great place for students who don't necessarily know what they want to pursue in the future but is also wonderful for those who have an idea of what they want to become. It is also great for those students who might have worries about attending a big college because it is neither big or small.

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Ava from Fairbanks, AK

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    If you are looking for a great education, you will definitely find it here. Gustavus is a liberal arts college that believes in a general education which requires you to develop critical and analytical thinking. In all of your classes, you learn something that you can take into your everyday life. Not only do you get to focus on a particular major, but you get to learn skills that will carry you everywhere.

    The teachers are extremely personable and friendly. They are willing to help and guide you. There is also excellent tutoring available and others are always willing to help! The library is also helpful and resourceful.
    Am enjoying being here

    Gusties are kind, considerate, and friendly people. Even with the wind (it is extremely windy) people still have smiles on their faces. The cafeteria is outstanding (Top Ten Best Campus Food in the Country. Literally.). The buildings are nice to look at, and there is plenty of things to do during the week or on the weekends.

    Activities are constantly going on, including concerts in the Cafe, improv comedies, guest speakers, game nights, and dances. There is never a lack of things to do in between studying!

    The town of Saint Peter is very small, and the movie theater isn't the greatest. Luckily, Mankato is about 15 minutes away, and you can get anything you need from there. It makes life more enjoyable when you can get to Target!
    Bang for the buck

    Gustavus is expensive. That's a fact. However, as a student where financial aid was a large factor in my choice, Gustavus really came through. After speaking with my admissions counselor and financial aid, I was able to work out something that could work for me. Never let price get in the way of the college you want to go to, including Gustavus. It is possible, and 100% worth it.
    Tips for prospective students

    Take in consideration what you want to do with your college experience. If you figure out what you want your major(s) to be, you can easily double major, with a few minors. Also, get in touch with your admission counselor, and don't be afraid to ask questions. It is important to find the college that is right for you.
    Great for these types of students

    Friendly, ambitious, involved (there is a club for EVERYONE, and everyone is involved in some way), values a good education.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 1 person found this inaccurate.

    anonymous

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    Gustavus has very strong academics, especially in the sciences. The professors all seemed to know their subjects inside and out, as well as helpful.
    Will enjoy being here

    The campus is beautiful at any time of the year. Some of the students seemed as though they weren't very friendly though. Also, they like to party and drink a lot.
    Bang for the buck

    It seems like a great place to get an education-if you can afford it. It's closing in on 50k a year though, so you have to think about how much you really want to be there. Unfortunately they don't offer very many scholarships either.
    Tips for prospective students

    Apply but don't limit your options. Also, try to get as many scholarships as possible!
    Great for these types of students

    Studious.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Taylor

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will enjoy being here

    I love the environment of the school. It's a beautiful campus with people that are very friendly and welcoming!

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Erica from Burnsville, MN

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Gustavus is a great liberal arts college. I have learned a lot in my classes. I was kind of intimidated/nervous for classes to start my freshman year because I knew that they would be challenging. However, I was put to ease when in my classes because all of the professors here are very helpful. The tutoring services are also very helpful in all of the subjects. One aspect that I really love about the classes at Gustavus is that even if I'm in a class that isn't for my major, I am still learning important information and gaining knowledge about the world and myself.
    Am enjoying being here

    I really enjoy the campus; the dorms are nice, the food in the cafeteria is delicious, and it's easy to get everywhere on campus. The people at Gustavus are really nice and fun. Everyone loves being a Gustie (our mascot). There is ALWAYS something going on at school, including the Nobel Conference, Mayday, volunteering programs, sporting events, and much more. I enjoy the extracurricular activities at Gustavus very much; most of the coaches at Gustavus are supportive and do a great job.
    Bang for the buck

    The initial price tag for Gustavus may turn people away, but it should not because Gustavus gives a lot of financial assistance. They make the school affordable to all students. There's merit scholarships, need based aid, student employment, and other scholarships. Also, the financial advisers are very helpful and will explain anything and everything to you.
    Tips for prospective students

    Visit Gustavus a couple of times because you will notice something new everytime. Also, doing an overnight stay at Gustavus really gives you a feel of what it is like to go to school here.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who want to work hard in college, but have fun at the same time with all of the various activities going on. Students who have an open mind to new ideas. And students who love to eat delicious food because the cafeteria is awesome! :)

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Alyssa from Crystal, MN

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I'm a big fan of the elementary education major. The professors are very nice and know what they're talking about. The department as a whole has a student-centered teaching philosophy and a good mix of theory and application. The department is just the right size so that you get to be like a family with your classmates.
    Am enjoying being here

    I love it at Gustavus. There are a ton of quality people who are just fun to be around. There are a ton of clubs and things you can join (and most people do) to get connected and meet people with similar interests.
    Bang for the buck

    Yes, looking at the price tag Gustavus seems expensive, but in general they give a lot of scholarships. In my case it was cheaper to go to Gustavus than a state school. Besides, you really get a good education at a college that is well known and respected. None of the classes are taught by teacher's assistants, and the liberal arts aspect is wonderful. For me it is totally worth the cost.
    Tips for prospective students

    -visit the campus in the spring or the fall- it is gorgeous!
    - talk to current Gusties and ask them your questions, they would love to tell you about the school!
    -sit in on a class in your major to get a feel for the academics
    - apply for all the scholarships you can

    Great for these types of students

    - people who care about social justice issues
    - students studying sciences
    - people who like to eat
    - people who like to be involved
    - people who want to make a difference in the world

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Caitlin from MN

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Gustavus is such a wonderful learning environment! Classes are challenging but there are so many resources (tutors, upperclassmen, profs--anyone!!) that are here to help you through it all. It is truly a learning community. Class sizes are perfect in that all of your profs know who you are and something about you. They all want to see you do well and make time for you.
    Am enjoying being here

    There is a huge sense of community up on the hill! People are so friendly and there is always stuff to do! It is a very active campus with lots of socializing!!
    Bang for the buck

    Yes, sticker price is a huge shock. I believe that if you don't use all of the resources they have for you on campus, you're throwing your money away and that could be anywhere.
    Tips for prospective students

    Always take two visits. The first time will be so much broader but when you visit a campus for the second time you are able to see it in a better light and see things you didn't necessarily notice before!
    Great for these types of students

    It is perfect for students who don't mind being in little ole St. Peter and can deal with the nearest Target being about 15 minutes away. There is a lot of academic work, but it pays off! Perfect distance form home if you live in the metro area!

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Tanner from Ham Lake, MN

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Great classes that provoke thought and tie into many subjects, not just the class focus. Also, there are many interesting options so that you can really find what you're looking for.
    Am enjoying being here

    The atmosphere is great. So many people of all personalities, a great place to find your niche. A lot of different activities and clubs to get to know people as well.
    Bang for the buck

    Very expensive on the sticker price but can be made much more affordable (similar to state school tuition) with scholarships and financial aid. Apply and wait to see about your financial aid before saying it's too expensive. Also, I feel as if it is a better experience and prepares you more so the extra money is worth it.
    Tips for prospective students

    Living your first year gives you three that fit into two different styles. Pittman and Sohre are a more laid back feel where as Noreilus (Co-ed) is more of a partying, social style.
    Great for these types of students

    Great for students who enjoy and want to be pushed, it will foster development in a positive fashion and really bring out your true colors. Perfect for those looking for close relationships and a small campus that feels more like family than a large university.