Spring Break Campus Bridging Initiative, Day Two
Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, setting the perfect tone for what was to come. The energy in the room was high as everyone engaged in conversation, fueling up not just on food but also on anticipation for the day ahead. By 9:00 AM, we piled into cars for the 30-minute drive to Stillwater. My group arrived a little early, giving us a chance to soak in the beauty of the city. The air was crisp and refreshing, the sun casting a golden glow over the streets. As we waited for the rest of the groups to arrive, we passed the time with a game of “I Spy,” pointing out the intricate details of Stillwater’s historic buildings and scenery.
Before heading into our first session, we took a brief detour to explore the quaint downtown coffee shops. I opted for a hot cocoa, which was rich and delicious—just what I needed to fully wake up for the day’s discussions. Our first session took place at the Stillwater Library, where we had the incredible opportunity to meet the city’s mayor. He was engaging and charismatic, making our introduction to Stillwater’s history and culture even more compelling. We delved into a discussion on “Place & Personhood,” reflecting on what makes a place feel like home. When it was my turn to share, I talked about my county fair and the Slice of Shoreview festival—memories that encapsulate the warmth and familiarity of home for me. It was fascinating to hear others’ perspectives and personal stories, each unique yet deeply relatable.
Lunch took us to Quickfire Pizza in downtown Stillwater, where I tried the Thai chicken pizza—an unexpected but delightful combination of flavors. Over lunch, I had the chance to chat with Andrew, one of the students from New York. As someone who had never met a “true New Yorker” before, I found it fascinating to learn about his experiences growing up in such a dynamic city. I also had a great conversation with a city council member who joined us, adding even more depth to our understanding of Stillwater’s governance and community.
Next up was our trolley tour—a definite highlight of the day. Riding through the streets of Stillwater, we were transported back in time as we learned about the city’s rich history. Stillwater was once a major hub for lumber production, and the grand mansions lining the streets were a testament to that prosperous era. Seeing these historic homes and hearing the stories behind them made me appreciate the depth of the city’s past.
Back at the library for our second session, we explored the concept of cultural identity through the lens of the Cultural Iceberg Theory. Working in pairs, we answered thought-provoking questions about our cultural backgrounds and personal influences. My partner, Angelina, shared insights about her experiences in Milwaukee and Winona, and I loved discovering both the similarities and differences between our upbringings. The exercise was a reminder of how culture shapes us in ways we don’t always recognize at first glance.
With some free time before dinner, my friends Andrea, Angelina, and I decided to take advantage of the beautiful weather and walk across the Stillwater Lift Bridge into Wisconsin. Standing at the state border, we snapped a picture with the Wisconsin welcome sign—a fun memory to take with us. We then wandered through the charming downtown shops, soaking in the unique small-town atmosphere before heading to our final stop of the day: dinner at Brian’s River Room. The meal was fantastic, topped off with milk and cookies for dessert. Over dinner, we continued networking, sharing reflections on the day, and deepening connections with both peers and staff.
As we made our way back to the hotel, I thought about how fun it was to learn about Stillwater’s history while making new friendships. The day was a reminder of how place and people intertwine to create something truly special.
