Name: Ellie Anderson (well, it’s actually Sarah Elise Anderson, but that’s a long story)
Year of graduation: 2015
Major/concentration: Spanish/ Management Studies
Relationship status: In a relationship
Favorite place to study: Tomson Hall (either atrium or lantern facing Melby) because it is so bright, clean and cheerful, and there are plenty of people, yet it remains quiet. I like that there are so many different ways to study; I cannot sit in one place… so I sit at a table, then move to a couch, then a chair, and then repeat the rotation!
Favorite food: I absolutely love fresh fruit; I would have to say ripe blueberries, strawberries and mangos would be near the top of my list (but I love most all food).
Favorite movie: Remember the Titans, hands down. The team’s growth to unity amidst fierce opposition is absolutely inspiring. I love the music, I love sports, and I love true stories.
Hobbies: hiking, fishing, swimming, running, singing, painting, playing bananagrams, reading, spending time with my family, traveling, soccer, teaching
What was the highlight of your Thanksgiving day?: Spending such a special morning outside with my incredible family- we snuck past a “KEEP OFF thin ice” sign and went skating on perfect ice and played pond hockey together.
What is your favorite class you’ve taken at St. Olaf and why?: Spanish 233 in Ecuador for interim my freshmen year. I have never travelled a more amazing, fun, hilarious, bright group of people and been a part of such awesome adventures (night walks through the Amazon, hiking up a mountain to the cloud forest, living with indigenous families, etc.). Plus, this was when I really discovered my passion for Spanish!
What part of your study abroad trip to Spain are you most excited about?: Oooooh my goodness. Everything. This will be such a fantastic adventure to really live in another culture, explore Europe, be immersed in my favorite language and be challenged in so many good ways. I will get to learn about the rich, dynamic history of Spain, while experiencing the beauty of art, cuisine and people! What a blessing to have this incredible opportunity!!
What’s your favorite sport to play and why?: Soccer. I just love the intensity and athleticism involved… you have to play as a team and really work the ball up the field together. Goals are so exciting, too. I love the team dynamic that is developed when everyone is working toward a common goal… winning!
Describe yourself in one word: Joyful
Call or text?: Neither! Come talk to me in person! I love meeting new people and hearing people’s stories. Technology makes things much less personal, I want to be able to see reactions and really engage in solid conversation.
What is your ideal date?: Going on a long, morning hike in the mountains (Colorado or Montana) up to a glacier lake to have a picnic lunch in the sunshine.
Finish this sentence: A girl looks her best when… she is confidently doing something she loves with people who love her!
Finish this sentence: A guy looks his best when… he is being a strong leader by serving others.
What do you want the ladies of St. Olaf to know?: You are beloved. God made you in his image and loves you very much. Live with purpose and inspiration to love others!
All photos provided by Ellie Anderson