The Gustavus Residential Experience

The Residential Life department at Gustavus Adolphus College believes that learning occurs both in and out of the classroom. Our residential program facilitates student learning through actively engaging residents in creating community and developing a sense of responsibility for their residence hall environment. 

Through their residential experience, Gustavus students will have the opportunity to understand and develop their sense of self and broaden their perspective on how core institutional values shape their capacity to influence communities to which they belong.

Learning Goals:

Through living on campus...

  • Gustavus residents will be able to contribute to and engage in a respectful and inclusive community.
  • Gustavus residents will be able to learn, identify, and enact strategies and opportunities to achieve academic and personal excellence.
  • Gustavus residents will be able to make morally responsible decisions to engage in a community founded on justice.
  • Gustavus residents will be able to participate in purposeful service that has an impact on individuals and the community.
  • Gustavus residents will be able to understand the impact belief systems and ethical decision making have on a community.

Strategies:

The Gustavus Residential Experience looks to integrate intellectual engagement with social interaction to create balanced, healthy, meaningful ways for residents to be involved in the life of their residence hall. This is implemented by engaging residents through various strategies and avenues including:

  • personal interactions between residents and Collegiate Fellows
  • hall events, activities, and programs
  • community meetings and email updates
  • bulletin boards, posters, and door decorations
  • leadership opportunities within residence halls
  • Intentional Learning & Service program housing

The Mission of Residential Life
The mission of the Office of Residential Life at Gustavus Adolphus College is to complement the academic mission of the institution by providing a living environment for students conducive to learning and development. Residential staff is committed to fostering a community in which students respect and affirm the dignity of all persons and develop the responsibility and values that will allow them to assume roles of leadership and service in society.