Katie Doolittle – Staff Writer
Sophomore Robert “Robbie” Swenson takes on his time at Gustavus with a fun-loving spirit. With his heavy involvement on campus and his rigorous studies, Swenson manages to meet his challenges with a positive, “can-do” attitude.
Swenson’s positive energy is deeply appreciated by his peers. “He is one of the friendliest people I have ever met. He effortlessly navigates small talk and makes everyone feel appreciated and welcomed, a skill I am incredibly envious of, while never shying away from deep and intense conversations,” Sophomore Tobias “Tobi” Polley said.
“He is the most genuinely kind person I have ever met, and is someone who is an upbeat person, who is great at lifting spirits and so fun to just hang out with. He is such a fun person and is always willing to be a bit silly, whether it be wearing a children’s Pikachu costume for Halloween, or rapping original songs at a Friday musical showcase,” Sophomore Thomas Warnke said.
When it comes to Gustavus, being from Northfield, Minnesota, Swenson has strong feelings. “Gutsie W; St. Olaf L. Got ‘em. For real though, all my love to St. Olaf, but the vibe of Gustavus is so wonderful, and I wouldn’t rather be at any other college!” Swenson exclaimed.
On the hill, Swenson is a Computer Science major and finds its value to be intrinsic. “I have always loved analyzing things in an exact manner–let’s go math,” Swenson said.
Swenson is grateful for this program and is looking forward to creating prominent change with his degree. “I wanted to do something that could impact the real world in a practical way, and, as fun as calculus is, I don’t know how often I am going to be taking integrals in everyday life. Thus, computer science has blessed my existence ever since I found it during my first year here at Gustavus,” Swenson stated.
Swenson uses his computer savvy skills in his student employment at GTS, the Gustavus Technology Services. “If you ever need help with your laptop, give me a ring, preferably when I am making money,” Swenson said.
Outside of his course work, Swenson is involved with the Gustavus Choir and LeGACy Acapella. “I love singing with other people, and I feel like choir is a wonderful artistic and social outlet for me at college,” Swenson said.
The Gustavus Choir is considered to be the “flagship choir” and its members represent a broad range of interests and personalities. LeGACy Acapella is a student-led acapella group that are known for their many performances at campus-wide events like Midnight Express and the All Acapella Showcase.
Swenson furthers his talents with his musician name Lil’ SIPDE. “Any free time he has goes towards his budding career as an incredibly talented musician and YouTuber under the name Lil’ SIPDE,” Polley said.
“One of the highlights of my time at Gustavus so far is rapping as “Lil’ SIPDE” in the chapel this past February for a Friday Musical Showcase,” Swenson said.
Swenson’s music can be found on SoundCloud under the name Robby Swenson. One of his most recent rap tracks is titled “Lund,” due to his love for the Lund Center. “It is certified heat, no bias,” Swenson said.
His passion for his musical interests can also be noted in his charismatic attitude toward Student Senate. “I am one of the Class of 2025 representatives! I joined the Senate because I am passionate about making changes that will affect student life on campus. Right now I and the Health and Housing Committee are working with dining services to try and make caf prices more consistent,” Swenson said.
Swenson’s studies and co-curricular activities are built on a foundation of discipline. “One word: GRINDSET. You will find me in Bjorling singing, in Lund hitting chest and only chest, always, studying at “The Dungeon” [which are] the standing desks by the post office, or occasionally sleeping 24/7, can’t stop won’t stop,” Swenson explained.
“Robbie is one of my best friends. He is an incredibly open-minded, outgoing, hardworking, and busy person. For him the intellectual/academic and personal development grinds never stop,” Polley said.
Despite having a strong dedication to his work, Swenson believes that the connections he made on campus are the most worthwhile. “On a serious note though, my time at Gustavus has been majorly defined by all of the wonderful people I interact with each day! I am so grateful for all of my wonderful friends, you are all ballers,” Swenson said.