Karl BjorkmanAdmission Counselor

Biography

When asked where he’s from, Karl goes back and forth between answering, “Pittsburgh” and “Princeton.” After moving to New Jersey in 2013 and finishing his last two years of high school, he attended St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN and graduated with a B.A. in Religion as well as concentrations in Film Studies and Business Management. During his undergraduate career, he served in Residence Life and had the privilege of singing in three of the choirs, including the distinguished St. Olaf Choir under the direction of Dr. Anton Armstrong. After his time in Minnesota, Karl returned to his hometown and graduated three years later with an M.A. in Systematic Theology from Princeton Theological Seminary.

Karl joined Franklin & Marshall in October of 2023. As someone who has been shaped by a liberal arts education and who remembers the stress and uncertainty that hung over his own college search, he is pleased to have the opportunity to work with students and families who are navigating this process in order to make it less daunting and more exciting.

When he’s not on the road or reading applications, Karl enjoys watching and talking about movies, playing disc golf, and spending time with his wife, Eszter, and his bunny, Totoro.

What does being a Diplomat mean to you?

It means to be a global citizen who is engaged in the hard work of having empathy, seeking justice, inviting collaboration, and extending kindness.

What is your favorite spot on campus?

My boring, but unimpeachable, answer is Hartman Green. It’s a beautiful space, but it’s also one of the places I feel the pulse of F&M most strongly.

What is your favorite part about Lancaster?

My favorite part about Lancaster is its ability to surprise you. One might be familiar with the county’s rich rural history and hospitable community. But they might not expect—like I didn’t—to find a thriving small city with a vibrant food and art scene and a strong commitment to welcoming immigrants. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s a great place to be a disc golfer, given its growing community and wide selection of local courses.