Brooke Carlstedt

Hometown, State: Shawnee, Kansas

What would life at KU look like without St. Lawrence?: St Lawrence provided a home away from home. The friendships I made at SLC were some of the truest and best friendships I made during my time at KU. During the early years of my college career, I found a community at St Lawrence that helped me grow into the person I always wanted to be. Some of my fondest memories are singing by the campfire at Koinonia, hiking mountains and water rafting in Colorado, and attending candle-lit Mass on Sunday nights. Without St. Lawrence, I would not have met some of my best friends, had a place to go when I was sad or met the person of Jesus in the Eucharist.

How would you describe your experience of community at St. Lawrence?: It wasn't until after I attended Koinonia that I really understood the community of St. Lawrence. After I went on retreat, I felt like no matter where I was around Lawrence, I saw someone I knew from SLC, and they always said hello. People at SLC really care about each other. I also think it's incredible how the community is continuously growing as those at SLC want more people to experience the love of God. The joy is contagious.

How are you called to build community after college?: Throughout my life, I've encountered those who feel like they don't belong. I think it's so important to find those who are on the outskirts and help them feel included. No matter where I end up or who I encounter along the way, I want to make sure they feel how loved they are and they have a place where they belong.

Where do your deepest commitments lie at this point in your life?: My deepest commitment has always been my family. They have always provided an amazing support system for me that allowed me to grow. When I came to college, my friends became my family; we supported each other while we were away from home and figuring out who we are.