“…there is no happiness like that of being loved by your fellow-creatures, and feeling that your presence is an addition to their comfort.”
-Jane Eyre written by Charlotte Brontë
As a returning student to Gustavus this phrase seems all the more true to me as I find myself once again surrounded by the many friendly and familiar faces here. As a first year last fall the faces were very friendly, but not that familiar as I was still adjusting to my new home on the hill. As a sophomore moving my things into the dorm a few weeks ago I didn’t experience the same nervous rush layered with uncertainty that I had last year, but instead a warm welcoming sense of belonging, like I was coming home after being away for several months. First year students: once Gustavus starts feeling more like home for you and you find a great group of friends that make you feel like your presence is not only wanted but needed, that’s the type of happiness that makes college the best years of your life.