News Editor- Jenna Anderson
The Gustavian Weekly would like to welcome the class of 2029 to Gustavus and give a warm welcome back to campus to all returning students. For those who aren’t familiar, the Weekly has been Gustavus’s student newspaper since 1891. The paper is distributed on Fridays and can be found throughout campus and, a new addition this year, through a weekly email. You can subscribe to our mailing list by scanning the QR code on this page.
On a regular occasion, news articles are to be kept objective, but I was allowed to editorialize just this once for the first article of the 2025-26 year. I’m Jenna, the news editor, so you won’t be hearing much from me this year (I’ll be working behind the scenes editing… important business).
I’m so thankful to be back on campus, truly one of my favorite places, for another amazing year. Aside from the beautiful scenery we are so lucky to have surrounding us, I also missed the Gustavus community. It’s great to be back with old and new friends, colleagues, professors, students, and staff here at Gustavus.
I’m not the only one feeling especially excited about being back with the Gustavus community this fall. Sophomore Will Prahl said that his favorite part of being back on campus is, “getting to experience the community we have on the Hill. Getting to see all my friends and professors again is awesome.”
When asked the same question, beloved dining service member Ted Rosenback said, “well, it’s you guys of course! Work is work, but it’s the students that keep me coming back.”
The Gustavus community, I have learned, is truly something special. There is a place for everyone to showcase their strengths and grow in a supportive environment, which is something I have been consistently thankful for during my time here. Gusties are hard-working, and supportive!
As exciting as the social aspect of campus life is, we are also all transitioning back into our classes for the semester. Interim Editor-in-Chief Colleen Coleman expressed her excitement for taking fun classes this semester. Having finished most of her gen-eds, she is feeling excited for the opportunities and classes her major provides. “I’m very excited to be in the classroom and learning again,” Coleman said.
Campus is buzzing with excitement as we welcome many changes to the 2025-26 school year. As of August 15th, Dr. John Volin has officially entered his role as our new president. You might see him walking around campus with his golden retriever puppy, Sofia, or eating in the cafeteria with students and staff. We are looking forward to the continued growth President Volin will bring to Gustavus.
To the First-year students adjusting to life at Gustavus, I am so happy you’re here! I hope that the chaos of orientation week wasn’t too overwhelming and that you’re settling in well. Looking back on my first year at Gustavus, I remember being a nervous wreck at times, in awe of the opportunities in front of me, pulled in a million directions at once, but most importantly, excited for this new chapter. First-year Gusties, no matter what you’re feeling about this transition, you’re not alone.
My advice to First-year students is to take advantage of the opportunities and resources in front of you. The next article is a deep dive into the resources available on campus. I encourage you to read that and make good use of the Academic Support Center, Counseling Center, Writing Center, and everyone who is here on campus just to help you!
Additionally, make use of this opportunity to try something new and meet new people. We have already established that the Gustavus community is fantastic, so go out and be a part of it. Gustavus has countless clubs, organizations, and activities to help you connect with fellow students and find your interests.
Additionally, I have to put in a good word for my absolute favorite part of campus: the arboretum. We have the perfect opportunity to be surrounded by all of Minnesota’s biomes. Nature is healing, and we have the perfect opportunity to get outside, right here. That being said, get out there and get involved. There’s no better time than the present!
I’m looking forward to an exciting year of journalism and conversation in my new position as news editor. I hope that your year is filled with new experiences, exciting opportunities to learn, and fun! Work hard, enjoy the little moments, and take it one day at a time. Don’t forget to pick up a copy of the Weekly every Friday, because print media is important! We strive to be an entertaining and reliable way to stay informed and connected.
Once more, on behalf of the Weekly, welcome back to the Hill!