St. Olaf sophomores take a major step
When students were on campus in early March, the St. Olaf College Class of 2022 came together to participate in a sophomore rite of passage this spring — major declaration day. The annual event, co-sponsored by the Center for Advising and Academic Support (CAAS) and Piper Center for Vocation and Career, is a celebration for sophomores as they take the next step on their academic journey.
Excited students bustled around the room — trying on new class T-shirts and posing for photos with Ole the Lion. Every academic department was represented, and students had the opportunity to chat with faculty members from their chosen field and hold up signs stating which major(s) they declared.
Assistant Director of Advising Melody Geiger believes that the day isn’t just about class camaraderie; it’s also important for maintaining the culture at St. Olaf. “It is very effective in reducing the number of undeclared sophomore students while also increasing feelings of belonging which are a very important factor in college retention and thriving,” she says.
Geiger, who led the planning committee, was thrilled to experience the event in person. “It was so exciting to see the huge turnout — around 450 sophomores attended — and the students’ excitement in celebrating this major milestone in their college careers with their friends and faculty members.”
Congratulations, Oles!