Close to Home

In our small town of Northfield, there is a large percentage of students who graduate from Northfield High School that decide to pursue their secondary education locally at either St. Olaf College or Carleton College. This year, twenty-three graduating seniors have chosen St. Olaf as their new home, and four have chosen Carleton. What is it about staying local that appeals to students?

Staying local to attend college comes attached with both advantages and disadvantages. No matter if a student chooses to be an Ole or a Knight, there are similar perks and downsides.

The disadvantages start with the distance from home. Many seniors look at college as a time to explore. Although charming, the town of Northfield is undeniably small. Some may desire adventure in a new city, state, or even country. The distance from home may be seen as an open invitation for mom and dad to drop by at a moment's notice. Carleton Professor Jeff Ondich says “It's good to have the experience of living in more than one place. Going to school in your hometown doesn't give you that.” Ondich, whose son attends Carleton, completed his own undergraduate degree at St. Olaf.

On the other hand, the close proximity from home may also have advantages. One such advantage is the presence of family if illness strikes. If you get sick, who knows how to take care of you better then your family? Head home and rest up in your own bed for a night or two, so then you are back on your feet in no time.

After graduating from Northfield High School in the class of 2007, Kim Smisek chose St. Olaf and reflects on her positive experience. “The best part about being close to home is that my family is near. Its a nice comfort to have” says Smisek.

One of the most fun aspects about having two colleges in one town is the unique river rivalry, which inspires some interesting competition. “I think the Carleton/St. Olaf rivalry is a fun and competitive aspect of Northfield college life that leads both schools fighting for the pride of the town” says Smisek.  

After the annual St. Olaf vs. Carleton football game, eagle in the middle of downtown Northfield gets turned toward the winning team's school. The little things, like the direction of an eagle, make a difference to these two teams who share a hometown. River rivalry is an ongoing competitive tradition between the two schools that will continue for years to come. 

"I didn’t choose St. Olaf because it was close to home. I chose St. Olaf because it was the right school for me, and it happens to be close to home” says Smisek. Much like Smisek, twenty-three graduated Northfield seniors have found the right fit for them right here in Northfield.