Alma mater facts for kids

Alma mater is a Latin phrase that means "nourishing mother." It's a special way to talk about the school, college, or university someone attended. Think of it like your school helped you grow and learn, just as a mother helps her children.

Long ago, in ancient Rome, people used "Alma mater" to describe a mother goddess. Later, in the Middle Ages, Christians used it for the Virgin Mary. But today, when most people say "Alma mater," they are talking about their old university or college. Sometimes, it can also mean the official song or hymn of a school.

Where Did the Idea Come From?

The idea of using "Alma mater" for a school started a very long time ago in Europe. The first time we know it was used this way was in 1088. This was when the University of Bologna in Italy, one of the oldest universities in the world, chose a motto. Their motto was "Alma Mater Studiorum," which means "nourishing mother of studies." This motto showed how important the university was in helping students learn and grow.

Alma Mater Today

Today, when adults talk about their "alma mater," they are usually thinking about their college or university. It's a way to show pride and connection to the place where they got their higher education. Many people feel a strong bond with their alma mater, often supporting it after they graduate. This support can be through donations or by helping current students. It's a way to give back to the "mother" that helped them start their journey in life.

Images for kids

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  Alma Mater statue by Daniel Chester French, 1903, Columbia University, New York City

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  Alma Mater (1929, Lorado Taft), University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

See also

In Spanish: Alma mater para niños