“The professors here are so supportive and genuinely interested in their students.”
Justin was originally interested in Gustavus because of its Education and Greek, Latin, and Classical Studies Departments, which would eventually become his two areas of study. He has combined these two areas through his Communication Arts/Literature Teaching major and Classical Languages minor.
Justin has been especially impressed by the environment of the Greek, Latin, and Classical Studies Department during his time at Gustavus and the faculty’s commitment to helping their students in all aspects of their lives. He says, “They take interest in their students, and they will do everything in their power to help them.”
Justin has become especially close with Professors Mary Solberg and Margaretha Kramer, appreciating that they both care about him not just as a student but also as a person. These faculty members have helped Justin prepare for a future career. “They have asked questions, sent resources, and made sure that I always had someone to go to when I needed it.” Justin’s favorite class so far was one instructed by Professor Solberg entitled Roman Comedy. He appreciated the “tight-knit” atmosphere among the peers in his class. He enjoyed Mary’s respect for her students, saying, “When a professor does that, it changes the whole vibe and meaning of a class.” The community feel among both students and faculty is something that Justin appreciates the most about the department.
Outside of the classroom, students are invited to participate in various activities, including broomball and barbecue nights adding to the community aspect. He has also been grateful for the opportunity to be a Teacher’s Assistant within the department, which has furthered his experience both as a future teacher, and as a Classics student.
In addition to his classroom pursuits, Justin is also involved in many student organizations on campus, including the Academic Operations Committee, the Student Educators Association, and both the Education and Classics Honors Societies.