College is full of many memorable activities and experiences. A Gustavus favorite for first-years is Greeter Groups, a group of upperclass student leaders who plan, organize, and lead incoming students through New Student Orientation.

Each Gustie Greeter is responsible for leading discussions, events and activities throughout Orientation, continuing their involvement and leadership throughout the rest of the year. Gustie Greeters serve as friends, mentors, and resources for incoming students.

“It’s our hope that the work we do, alongside that of the CFs, PAs and other groups, helps GAC really feel like home for the first years!” – Karrin Becker ‘17

“It’s our hope that the work we do, alongside that of the CFs, PAs and other groups, helps GAC really feel like home for the first-years!” Senior Karrin Becker said.

Becker is a senior Spanish and Sociology-Anthropology double major. This is her second year as a Gustie Greeter!

Becker became a Greeter after seeing how her own greeter treated her.

“I had the most amazing experience with my own Greeter, who helped me learn to love Gustavus as an unsure first-year. She was the first person to make me feel cool, like I really mattered and was now a valuable part of this community. That was such a gift during the tumultuous transition that is coming to college, and I wanted to give it to other first-years and do for them what she did for me,” Becker said.

“I saw them as role models to not only the first years of how Gusties should embody these characteristics, but to students of all classes.” – Laura Isdahl ‘17

Each Greeter is connected in their love for the school and desire to assist new Gusties.  Senior Laura Isdahl is serving her third and final year as a Greeter.

“I wanted to become a Greeter for a lot of reasons, but mainly because of the tone that the Greeters set for students the minute they step on campus. Right away, they create an atmosphere of positivity, excitement, inclusion, and welcome. I saw them as role models to not only the first years of how Gusties should embody these characteristics, but to students of all classes,” Senior Laura Isdahl said.

Before the big move in day, Greeters undergo a lot of training and preparation. Greeters meet weekly during spring semester and then get together before Orientation for an intense week of training that includes discussion facilitation, institutional policies, team-building exercises, personal reflection, and strength development.

“There’s a lot of bonding that happens with the other Greeters during training, and at the end of it you feel like you have a whole new family of 50+ people. You also learn so much about yourself: your communication style, how you get your energy and how you recharge, your strengths and weaknesses, what kind of leader you are, and the kinds of relationships you want to build,” Becker said.

Additionally, Greeters undergo intensive training in diversity, Title IX, the Clery Act, and their role as mandatory reporters.

“During that week, I have gotten to know all the Greeters on a deeper level, gained insight into the most up-to-date campus resources and policies, and reflected immensely on my own time at Gustavus.” – Cara Christiansen ‘17

   “During that week, I have gotten to know all the Greeters on a more deeper level, gained insight into the most up-to-date campus resources and policies, and reflected immensely on my own time at Gustavus,” Senior Cara Christiansen said.

Christiansen is a senior Computer Science major in her second year as a Greeter.

“My favorite part about being a Greeter is having the opportunity to deeply reflect on my own experiences of nerves and fears starting college to now being on the other side as a senior excitedly sharing all the opportunities new students have to look forward to,” Christiansen said.

“This year, many Greeters play a role in their Greeter Group’s FTS class, leading activities and discussions on campus life, wellbeing, diversity, and more.” – Laura Isdahl ‘17

After months of preparation, the  big day is finally here! New Student Orientation where Gustavus welcomes hundreds of new Gusties. Greeters immediately welcome the incoming students with cheer and energy, greeting students at their cars and helping ease those first few overwhelming moments.

After orientation, the Greeters remain involved with their Greeter Groups. Their roles are to maintain a relationship with the first years through a variety of different events such as one-on-one meetings, athletic events, or campus dinners.

“This year, many Greeters play a role in their Greeter Group’s FTS class, leading activities and discussions on campus life, wellbeing, diversity, and more,” Isdahl said.

As first years anxiously prepared for college, the Greeters anxiously prepared for their arrival. There’s no doubt this year’s Orientation will be an energetic, positive experience for the incoming students to enjoy. Gusties will shine!