For 174 years, Lasell University has evolved with the times — yet somehow, it’s managed to keep the same feeling of home that drew me here. As our campus continues to grow and change, I often find myself asking: what makes Lasell, Lasell?
There are a few different angles that one could take to answer this question, a few that I plan on answering. Different qualities, such as the curriculum, the physical campus, and the traditions/events, allow Lasell to have a unique environment. For me, Lasell has and will always highlight and cater to their students.
In the classroom, students are required to utilize and build skills of communication and collaboration in order to gain experience to allow for easier acquisition of job opportunities and to well-round themselves as members of society. Lasell’s core curriculum includes speaking and writing-intensive courses that support students in building these values.
There are also requirements for classes known as ‘Knowledge Perspectives’ that enrich the knowledge of students in different subjects. The requirements of classes revolve around scientific, historical, sociological, and aesthetic (arts) thinking/analysis. These aren’t just boxes to check; they’re what help us become more than just our majors.
Outside of the classroom, Lasell’s physical qualities set it apart from competitors and other college campuses. Besides the three distinct campus sectors, Lasell’s architecture is in its own league. Aesthetically, the Victorian architecture is something that is special to Lasell; not only can students view the Victorian mansions of our campus, but they can also live in them. The beauty and history of the Victorian mansions at Lasell were part of the reason that I ended up coming here as a student.
If Lasell’s academics and architecture give it structure, then our traditions give it soul. The student population and the events available to them to participate in are what give our university its heartbeat. Events such as U-Belong (our annual inclusivity celebration), Friends, Family, and Alumni weekend (a nostalgic weekend for all our favorite guests), and the Torchlight Parade (a heartfelt goodbye and a sharing of legacy from the graduating seniors) connect the entire Lasell community, from students to Senior Management. Every event and tradition is intentional and brings people from all corners of our school together, unifying everyone under the same torch.
Lasell University is unique, and that is something I will forever be grateful for. As our university continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: its people.
The students, faculty, and staff who fill our campus keep the spirit and excellence of Lasell alive. Our university’s story isn’t just kept in the archives, stuck in books and journals – it is in our spirits and day-to-day experiences and will continue to grow.
–Nov. 4, 2025–
