Sense of Belonging with Kaidan

Transcript

These campuses are breathtaking and somewhere out in the St. John’s Arboretum right now is Kaidan, a communication major who’s come a long way from home to attend St. John’s and St. Ben’s. Benny’s and Johnny’s get to explore it all with easy access to all kinds of free recreational equipment through the campuses’ Outdoor Leadership Center. Kaidan, where are you?

– Thanks, Alex. I’m here next to Lake Sagatagan, one of my favorite places on campus. When I first was applying for a school, my only priority was to play soccer. I quickly learned that St. Ben’s and St. John’s not only supported this dream, but they offer so much more. I’m from the state of Washington and I applied to more than a dozen schools, much closer to home on the West coast, but the place that I felt most comfortable and welcomed for my next adventure was here, halfway across the country. The past couple of years, these schools have introduced me to interesting people who have pushed me to explore my passions and try new things. More specifically, the fine arts tradition has allowed me to explore my major while still participating in varsity sports and exploring the arts. The St. Ben’s and St. John’s campuses are incredible. 3000 acres of lakes, prairies, oak, Savannah, pine, and hardwood forests. CSB and SJU let you engage with the environment around you while you come to understand the effort and importance of preserving land like this. I personally like to capture as much as I can on my film camera. Beyond campus, the town of St. Joseph is ideal, fun restaurants, coffee shops, ice cream parlors, and more. It’s a great location with Collegeville and the St. Cloud area and just over an hour from the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Through my time here, I’ve learned what I care about and who I want to be. Being able to advocate for what is right by embracing differences or focusing on both social justice and environmental issues. St. Ben’s and St. John’s welcome these discussions and make these goals and passions attainable, and that’s my story. Kickin’ it back to you, Alex.

– Kaidan, that is spectacular. And your photos really bring it to life. I’ve heard an iconic chapel walk is the perfect way to experience the arboretum, covering just a few of the 20 miles of hiking trails. What do you say, we meet up and head out right after I wrap up here? See you soon.