An Arboretum of Beauty

At Andrews University, the changing of the seasons transforms the campus into a vision of beauty. The autumn season brings striking oranges, vibrant reds, and bright yellows that make walking to class feel like walking through a painting. The Andrews campus is really the Andrews University Arboretum, a botanical collection of a variety of species of trees. The Andrews Arboretum is filled with a variety of tree species that are labeled, studied, and enjoyed daily by students. Some students have experienced the Andrews Arboretum through all four seasons. I asked students what their favorite plant was on campus to get a feel for what it’s like to live in an arboretum.

“Oh, I love the big tree that’s on the corner of the road that is behind the science complex… It's HUGE and the changing leaves are absolutely breathtaking this time of year. Also, there are those bushes that are in front of PMC that have turned a bright pink/magenta, an INSANE transformation. I pretty much choose my favorite greenery depending on how “not-green” it becomes in the fall.”

Brandon Alvarez (senior, biochemistry and business)

“I like the line of trees at the front entrance of Andrews. I like them because when fall is starting they’re so beautiful and make the campus look inviting. Even though they don’t last long, it makes you appreciate them more when they’re in peak color.”

Carolina Smith (senior, animal science)

“The Japanese Angelica Tree, scientifically known as Aralia elata, is native to Korea, China, Japan, and Russia. Although it is a small tree that resembles a large shrub, its entire surface is covered with strong, sharp thorns. I have a deep appreciation for this thorny tree due to its exceptional taste. In early spring, young shoots emerge from its branches, which can be harvested and prepared. Given its prickly nature, it's essential to use puncture-resistant gloves when collecting the shoots. After cleaning them, the shoots can be blanched in boiling water for approximately 30 seconds before consumption. Koreans often season these shoots, while in Japan, they are commonly fried. Personally, I find the shoots from the Japanese Angelica tree to be among my favorite vegetables. They excel in every aspect, from their aroma, texture, to taste. If you ever have the opportunity, I encourage you to visit the agriculture building at Andrews University, where this remarkable tree can be found.”

Kiheon Chung (senior, religion and biochemistry)

“In the fall, I especially love the maple trees on campus, since the colors of the leaves are so vibrant. In the spring, I love the blooming cherry blossom trees. If you’re a plant lover, I highly recommend visiting the greenhouse on the 4th floor of the science complex. It’s a beautiful green space available to students.”

Ariana Coast-Dice (senior, biology and animal science)

“Yes! The magnolia trees around campus are so pretty! I love the pink flowers that bloom in the spring. The blossoms are such a beautiful pink and they are so nice to look at while walking to class.”

Lydia Sarpong (senior, speech-language pathology)

I think maple is my favorite because they turn different types of color and it’s really pretty. It’s also pretty walking to school and seeing the colored leaves are on the path, so those would probably be my favorite plant.

Rekha Isaac (senior, biochemistry and mathematics)

“I love the trees that line the main street into campus. During the summer months they are a bright green that welcomes anyone lucky enough to experience them. Once they turn in autumn, they are shades of orange and yellow that warm us up during the chilly months. In winter when they are frosted white, light reflects on them to illuminate even the grayest days. Finally, in spring they showcase their budding leaves just like the budding excitement on our campus as it starts to show signs of new life once again. These trees go through the motions with us but manage to still stand beautifully no matter the weather! I think they are a wonderful metaphor for inspiration to us all!”

Thandi Dewa (senior, Spanish and biology)

“My favorite tree on campus is the Hackberry tree. I like it because it is so tall and grand. The branches stick out perfectly like a drawing. It is a tree that I never get tired of seeing no matter the season. These types of trees could grow up to 60 feet tall! You can see it as you pass by the Andrews Clock.”

Anali Guzman (senior, public Health)

“I wanted to mention the grass and trees in the flag mall because every time I go to study at the library, my desk is facing them. I can see their colors change from one season to another and it reminds me that change brings beauty. Some changes are brighter than others, some are warmer, others colder. When looking at it we can always find a reason to stop and admire the transition. This view is one of my favorites on campus.”

Cesia Herrera (senior, speech-language pathology)

“My favorite plant on campus has to be the Common Jewel Weed known as the, “touch-me-not” plant that grows in the trails on campus. I love seeing students in my biology lab get scared when the flower pops when they touch it… they scream and jump and it’s so fun to see!”

Hannie Casamayor (senior, biology)

“I really love the collection of super cool willow trees near the side of the seminary. I love them because of their unique shape that goes downward like an umbrella. In the spring, they have flowers and one has a purple that I really like! I love all the colors of the flowers but the purple one has to be my favorite. Amongst all the green of the campus, the colors of the flowers of these trees are so nice!”

Carly Weems (senior, animal science)

“One of my favorite trees is the Ginkgo tree. It has such a beautiful and unique leaf shape resembling a partially folded fan that turns a brilliant gold in the fall. Also, it is said to be one of the oldest tree species in the world.”

Gabriella Srikureja (senior, biochemistry)