Tristan Fernstrom came to Gustavus knowing that on the inside he was a little different than what outsiders saw. During his first year at Gustavus, Tristan was known as Erica, the name given to him at birth, and over Coming Out Week Erica came out as a lesbian. As time went on and he learned more about himself, however, Tristan realized that identifying as a … Continue reading Gustie of the Week: Tristan Fernstrom

When Junior Physics and Computer Science Major James Trevathan has a moment away from sitting through science lectures, working in labs and conducting research, it might not be a surprise that he cherishes the outdoors. James is a member of Gustavus Outdoor Enthusiasts (GOE) and enjoys the adventure and exhilaration of outdoor activities like rock climbing. Not only is James involved in GOE, but he … Continue reading Gustie of the Week: James Trevathan

Eric Halvorson is a Senior Political Science Honors major and Religion minor. He is the department assistant for Political Science and also the co-president of Pi Sigma Alpha, the Political Science honor society. His passion for Political Science stems from a place of curiosity in the ways people relate to their communities, “I am really interested in the different ways that people participate in the … Continue reading Gustie of the Week: Eric Halvorson

If you are an early riser and enjoy working out just as the sun begins to appear, you will most likely run into Sophomore English Major Heather Paaverud working out with her fellow Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) members. Although Heather originally hails from Shakopee, MN, she now spends the majority of her time on the Gustavus campus, making the most of her experience both … Continue reading Gustie of the week: Heather Paaverud

Perhaps one of the best indicators of a true Gustie is their involvement at Gustavus beyond academics. Such is true with Senior Biology major Muresuk Mena. Whether he’s on the football field or in the classroom, Muresuk puts all of his energy into excelling at whatever he does. “Suke’s determination and passion for the things he admires is unbelievable,” Junior Adwoa Afreh said. Originally from … Continue reading Gustie of the Week: Muresuk Mena

Putting the ‘si’ in passion When looking for Rachel Chase around campus, you are most likely to find her chatting with friends in the Caf or working on homework outside while enjoying the fall weather. Astonishingly enough, this Senior Spanish major manages to find time to do these things in between her heavy course load and her busy schedule of extracurriculars. Rachel knew she was … Continue reading Gustie of the week: Rachel Chase

The class of 2016 is making Gustavus their home for the 151st academic year. More than 715 students from thirty states and nine countries have moved to the hill to start their college careers. Many different aspects of being a first-year at Gustavus have brought the incoming class together. Unloading an entire dorm room from the family mini van may have been stressful, but the … Continue reading Gustie of the Week: Class of 2016

Empowering men to have healthy relationships and friends to rely on. Matthew Swenson, co- president of M-Pact, strives to create gender equality and healthy communication between both men and women to expel stereotypes about men. His role in the group has allowed him to strengthen and deepen the work of M-Pact. “It will succeed and flourish with the care Matthew brings to it,” Director of … Continue reading Gustie of the Week: Matthew Swenson

Going above and beyond in all she does. As Finance Chair on Student Senate, Jessye Flannery brings a positive attitude and personality to the position. The unique spelling of her name is one feature of this remarkable woman. “My mom wanted my name to be unique,” she said. “The spelling ‘Jessye’ comes from the opera singer Jessye Norman. My mom saw her interviewed on TV … Continue reading Gustie of the Week: Jessye Flannery

Matt Wasson: professional yet chill Senior Communications Studies Major Matt Wasson, who goes by Chooey, is a kid at heart who isn’t intimidated by hard work. “I look for new challenges and fun in everyday. I try to have at least one meaningful conversation everyday that leaves me with a smile,” he said. He got his unique nickname, Chooey, from his brother who couldn’t say … Continue reading Gustie of the Week: Chooey