In the American small town, the village green or commons, and the places located on or around it, are where people of all ages and from all walks of life traditionally gather to talk and socialize, to take care of business and to have some fun. Since its inception, St. Olaf has cared deeply about the type of community it invites its students to join and build. The space in which we live and work can profoundly shape the way we think of each other, care for each other's destiny, and build a common life together. One of the great strengths of St. Olaf arises from opportunities for shared experiences.
Students learn together as classmates and lab partners.
They perform together as musicians and athletes. They live together as roommates and neighbors. They serve together as campus leaders and community volunteers. They deepen their faith as members of the student congregation and through service together. And through studying abroad and on campus with international students, they nurture a sense of belonging to a global community, as well as the smaller campus community.