So many different aspects of St. Olaf have reached Hutchison, but he remembers the semester he spent in Australia as one of the most compelling. Traveling to Australia and living there for half a year is still one of the most defining moments of my life to date. It gives me such a sense of appreciation for life, just by traveling and seeing life around the world. This love of adventure has Hutchison thinking about his future plans, which could include everything from the Peace Corps to being a drummer with a rock band. Hutchison encourages perspective students to keep an open mind.
Academics are important, but so are people skills.
Go out, enjoy yourself, and take time to make relationships, get to know people. It is in college that people make lifelong friendships and memories. It is this time in your life that you will probably find your niche and settle into it, so make sure you explore life, in all its glories, and make sure you are comfortable with who you are. I think the faculty are generally some of the nicest adults I've ever met extremely helpful, genuine, caring people that will always go out of their way to serve your needs and wants. Hutchison's study abroad experience helped him appreciate this even more.