Grace LaTourelle-
With one full week under the Gusties’ belts, Spring Semester is in full swing on campus. Alongside changes, events, and the typical stresses of college life, there are advisors, faculty, and programs to help students adjust and thrive.
Mental health therapist in the Counseling Center, Jessica Auel, recognized that this time of year may be difficult for students, especially when dealing with the cold and lack of light which forces people to be more sedentary. Mental well-being is an important component of thriving in the Spring Semester.
The Gustavus Counseling Center offers programs and services for students to utilize to aid in their mental well-being. This spring, there will be two support groups meeting: Queer and Questioning, and Divergent Discourse. They also have workshops on a variety of topics such as depression, anxiety, stress management, and other skills.
The Sensory Space, which is new this school year and sponsored by the Counseling Center, also offers relief throughout the school day through tools such as a sensory deprivation tent, massager, guided meditations, and fidget toys. To utilize it, students can book a time on the website.
Auel suggested that routines are difficult not only to create but also to stick with. She advises that students try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
“…that consistency is great for optimal brain functioning…and that extra time on your ‘off’ days can be an opportunity to get breakfast with a friend, engage in a hobby, or just have some time to relax before the busyness of the day sets it,” Auel said. “…make sure you’re utilizing your support system. And know that you don’t have to do it alone! I know I speak for all of our therapists when I say we are here for you.”
Another student-focused resource this semester is Student Senate. With movement following the end of Fall Semester, there are opportunities for Gusties to get involved in applying for Southwest Hall representative, 2027 class representative, Sohre Hall representative, and Co-President.
Those not involved with Student Senate, however, still have ways to interact with them. This spring, the Senate is working on transparency panels revolving around Dining Service, Slingshot, and tuition.
“These panels will offer students opportunities to ask the respective constituents questions anonymously and get them answered right away,” Co-President and Senior, Chance Korpela said.
Students are also able to sit in on Senate meetings, taking place in Beck 301 at 7:30 p.m. on Mondays, and can voice opinions or concerns during the ‘Community Comment’ section.
To aid in the creation of community, the Campus Activities Board will have several events and opportunities throughout the semester. Their two biggest events will be the Presidents Ball on Feb. 14th, 2025 and the concert featuring Yung Gravy on Apr. 11th, 2025. Other events will include dala horse making, cake decorating, and a pool party.
This semester also introduces new Cabbies to the board. Co-President of CAB and Sophomore, Katelyn Benschoter noted that this year’s board has a relatively even split between new Cabbies and returning members. CAB is also still looking for a Recreations executive and Late Nights and Weekends co-executive to join the board. Those wanting more information or looking to apply can email them at cab@gustavus.edu.
“I am so excited for this semester’s programming, and for another exciting year for CAB,” Benschoter said.
With the academic calendar changes, Spring Semester may feel different. Notorious events such as the Presidents Ball will happen earlier, as well as Spring Break taking place March 3rd-7th, 2025. For graduating seniors, commencement will happen May 4th, 2025.
“The spring always goes so fast, and it quickly becomes a time when you focus on next year. You’ll be thinking about summer internships and jobs, where you’ll be living next year, and your fall classes,” Dean of Students, Charlie Potts said. “But don’t forget to focus on what you have in front of you this spring so you can have a successful and fun semester!”
Finally, another major change for Gustavus is President Rebecca Bergman’s retirement on June 30th, 2025. Currently, the Presidential Search Committee and Board of Trustees are working to find a replacement, who will begin July 1st, 2025.
“People have been asking me about what I am looking forward to in retirement…First, I am looking forward to enjoying a little more relaxed time together with my husband…We love to take walks and cook together. Second, I will have a chance to be more involved with our four grandchildren and attend their various activities,” Bergman said. “And third, I expect that we will travel a bit more, both road trips in our camper as well as overseas adventures. After spending some time with my family, I know I will want to get involved in various community service opportunities.”
Bergman offered advice to students for the upcoming semester. Among things such as having a positive mindset, active class participation, and being organized, she also suggested seeking out help from various resources and investing in spiritual well-being by attending Chapel Break. Finally, she also reminded students to spend quality time with friends and have fun.
As students ease into the semester, and school work and commitments begin to pile up, there are resources, organizations, and people that are available to aid in transition, stress, and joy.
“Take care of yourself, each other, and this place,” Potts said.