I began my time at St. Olaf in 2020, the year of chaos and so many unknowns. For me, St. Olaf was more of a known during this time as both my sister and dad went here, and I was more familiar with the school. However when I got there, I realized how different and more challenging things were — all due to COVID-19.

The first semester was the hardest one I’ve had in my life. I am a very outgoing person, and being isolated in a place where I knew no one was really difficult. However, as vaccinations started to disperse and things started to open up, I soon began to see the magic I had heard about for so many years. I came into college during a global pandemic where I had no idea who I was or what I was doing. I left college this year with lifelong friends and relationships, a clear direction of where I am and where I am heading, a strong sense of self-confidence and perseverance, and a second place I consider home in Northfield, Minnesota.

I came into college during a global pandemic where I had no idea who I was or what I was doing. I left college this year with lifelong friends and relationships, a clear direction of where I am and where I am heading, a strong sense of self-confidence and perseverance, and a second place I consider home in Northfield, Minnesota.

I look forward to all of the things to come in my life, but equally as important I look back on the four years that have made more of an impact on my life than anything else — four years that shaped me into the person I am proud to be. Is that what it means to be an Ole? I know it does. It is now that I truly understand the phrase “Oles Can, Oles Will.” Every place on this campus will always hold a special place in my heart as I will forever consider them all home.