Senior Spotlight: Elena Olson

As graduation draws near, we’re sitting down with the class of 2025 to talk about their time at Sioux Falls Lutheran School and what the future holds.

Photo Credit: Wendy Sweeter, Sweeter Images

Name: Elena Olson

College/University accepted to: University of Sioux Falls (USF)

Intended field of study: Graphic design

What makes USF a good fit for you?
USF is a local Christian college that aligns with my beliefs and goals. I am also a “legacy” student because my parents both went there, as well as my sister.

How did you feel when you received the news of your acceptance?
I felt excited and relieved because I had been praying for acceptance (or peace of mind if I wasn’t accepted). 

How did you decide on a school/field of study?
I knew I wanted to do graphic design after doing research and projects on potential careers. I also plan on possibly taking online classes to achieve a master’s degree in library science through a different college.

Which classes, programs, and/or faculty at Sioux Falls Lutheran School helped support your interest in your planned career field?
The only class that particularly supported my interest in my planned field of study was English, because it was the class that I conducted career research/planning for.

Please share any other activities that had a significant impact on you during your time at SFLS.
Choir helped me realize that I have a passion for singing, so I plan to participate in USF’s choir ensembles this fall. I enjoyed powerlifting in 8th grade and my brief time in track my sophomore year. I may continue working out and possibly athletics in college.

What is your favorite Bible verse?
“Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” —1 Peter 2:12

I love this verse because it talks about living as an example for others to spread God’s love.


About Sioux Falls Lutheran School
Sioux Falls Lutheran School is a family community committed to developing capable Christian servant-leaders in a complex world who are World Ready and Faith Secure. We are passionate about giving our students the tools they need to be successful academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. We strive to accomplish this goal by maintaining high academic standards, employing excellent teachers, and upholding a Christian worldview drawn from Scripture. Ultimately, our vision is to partner with families in preparing children, as led by the Holy Spirit, for faithful and bold use of their God-given gifts to navigate and serve a complex world with the love of Christ.