Gustavus Adolphus College
Saint Peter, MN, USA

Reviews

Gustavus Adolphus College

Ashlie from Duluth, MN

a current student here
15 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
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.

Ava from Fairbanks, AK

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
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.

Erica from Burnsville, MN

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
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! :)

Alyssa from Crystal, MN

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
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

Tanner from Ham Lake, MN

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
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.

David from Apple Valley, MN

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Gustavus is a place that prides itself on it's sense of community. However a lot of people believe that college who advertise that say that it sounds like a lot of hot air designed just to attract students. Now that I actually go here, I can say for sure, that they are not.
Tips for prospective students
At the very least, check out Gustavus especially if Financial Aid is important to you
Academic Rigor
The classes are very good, but the profs are the people who make the classes worth attending
Dorm Life
I absolutely love my roommate and me section (my equivalent to a hall), its just a great group of guys.
Food and Dining
Gustavus has one of the best dining services in the nation for a reason, try our Gyros on Fridays! they are simply divine
What to do for fun
Being in a small town there is a lot less to do than being in a large city school, so a down side is how small the college is, but the school also pays for events like SNL (Saturday night in lund- our athletics complex) to have parties that are actually super fun, they usually cater dominoes or buffalo wild wings, so you eat good food FOR FREE
Bang for the buck
Gustavus is decently expensive, but they do give great financial aid, however the price of the college is still high. I would contest however that the environment here is worth the price you pay.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
We have a sculpture in front of our library, it is a 3-D bronze cube, that is a ABCD, you spin it around before a paper or midterms or finals, and whatever letter you have facing the library is supposedly what you will earn.
Great for these types of students
People who love being with other people, also people who value having a prof in class every day, in stead of a TA
Clubs and Activities
The clubs here are super fun, I am involved with a men's choir groups and I often work with the colleges Queers and Allies program, both are super worthwhile and defiantly draw fun people.
Greek Life
Greek life is very different here than it is at a normal school, there is no Greek row, there are no official Greek houses, also they are not usually nationally affiliated, except for Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) so they are cheaper but won't get you networked as easily. They focus more around community service, but it doesn't mean they don't have fun.
Campus Safety
Campus safety is really good at Gustavus because they hire students (through their student employment program) to keep people safe, this adds a student context to the rules at Gustavus, they understand that people make mistakes, so their job is less about punishment and more about preventing anything bad from happening.

Nick

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Gustavus has a strong sense of community where there are plenty of opportunities to create lasting relationships. It is a Lutheran school but is very accepting of other religious practices. It's a great place to explore and learn about yourself.
Tips for prospective students
Go to things like involvement fairs or activities where you can meet people. Strive to maintain those relationships as knowing people is a huge blessing.
Academic Rigor
It can be what you make it to be. Professors are mostly flexible and willing to work with you.
Dorm Life
There are many options to choose from. The res life staff is very organized and on top of things as well as very approachable.
Food and Dining
Incredible food! The meal plans are also an easy thing to figure out and they make life simple.
What to do for fun
Mankato is not far from St. Peter and there is a lot to do there. There's activities going on every night on campus though including speakers, music events, sporting events, group activities, and a number of other fun things.
Bang for the buck
It's not a cheap place but the experience is without question worth the money.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Midnight Express is the night before finals begin where professors serve free food to students and it's basically a huge study party.
Clubs and Activities
There is truly something here for everyone.
Campus Safety
They are very on top of things and easy to contact.

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Tips for prospective students
visit gustavus, and spend the night!
Academic Rigor
most classes are difficult, but everyone here is here to support you. if you're looking into going into biology or chemistry, you have a lot of work ahead of you,
Dorm Life
the dorms are all pretty nice and the cfs (known as ras at most schools) try hard to make it a nice living environment. make sure you figure out which dorm fits you though before you choose!
Food and Dining
great food! on the weekends there are less options, but during the week, there are always a ton of yummy choices.
What to do for fun
there are always fun things happening, you just have to make the effort to do them. the campus activity board has many events throughout the week and weekend (small concerts, shows, speakers, etc.) and there is always something going on in the dorms.
Bang for the buck
it's expensive, but they seem to be pretty good about scholarships. it's a great school!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
they have the linneaus arboretum which is basically an on campus nature park.
Campus Safety
i've never felt unsafe, and campus safety is only a phone call away.

Caitlin from MN

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
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!

carlie from virginia, mn

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
gustavus is my community. i have met some of the nicest and most genuine people here. once a gustie, always a gustie.
Tips for prospective students
transfer in as many ap or college-credit classes as you can! it saves tons of time and money. look at the academic catalog and have a rough idea of what you're interested in or what you think you want to major in. this makes registering for classes so much easier and can save you from taking unnecessary classes.
Academic Rigor
you will definitely be challenged and pushed; however, it is still doable and the profs are so nice and willing to help.
Dorm Life
the dorms here on campus are fairly nice and you live with tons of people your age, so you're always around your friends.
Food and Dining
the caf has the best deserts i have ever tasted. there is also a ton of variety and room for creativity so the food doesn't get too boring.
What to do for fun
there are always tons of fun events for free on campus pretty much everyday of the week! mankato also has lots of restaurants and stores only about 15 minutes away.
Bang for the buck
definitely worth every very expensive penny. you're paying for not only a wonderful experience and a top-notch education, but hundreds of connections for future jobs.
Great for these types of students
driven and motivated. want to achieve their fullest potential
Clubs and Activities
lots of intermurals, greek life, and volunteer clubs. if you can think of it, we probably have it and on the off chance we don't, there is a process you can go through to make one!
Greek Life
both local and national fraternities and sororities. every one has a great philanthropy and isn't just a party 24/7.
Campus Safety
they're everywhere. watch out