Alexis Lee
Graduation year: 2025
High school: Horizon High School
Hometown: Brighton, Colo.
Majors: Political science, environmental studies
Minor: Creative writing
Activities: Asian Student Organization, Political Science Student Advisory Council, Politics Club, Phi Rho sorority, Reading/Writing Center (RWC) tutor, PACE mentor
Internships: Office of Senator Tammy Duckworth; University Corporation of Atmospheric Research NSF SOARS intern at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Post-grad plans: Gap year to take the LSAT
Why Augustana?
When asked why Augustana, I often joke that Augie chose me. Before I even knew where Rock Island was, Augie had stood out to me because of its personal letters and willingness to know me as a person and not just a number. I'm an out-of-state student, and after I visited, I could see myself making a home here. They made me feel special as a young senior in high school and continue to even as a college senior.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
Not at all! I had always been a girl with a plan, but I was shown quickly that plans, your passions and vocational journey are meant to change. Yet, I am happy that I am not who I was when I first came to campus. Through my education, peers and experiences, I have become someone much more compassionate, patient, wise and competent.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
The simple answer is my family. They deserve all of the recognition and appreciation in the world for supporting me through it all. I couldn't have done it without them, nor would I even be here at Augie.
However, credit is also due to the people who challenged and pushed me to do things and think outside of my comfort zone. I am a better person because they did not let me take the easy path, but they never let me do it alone. This comes from my ALIVE mentors, the RWC faculty and tutors, my internship coordinators, CORE counselors, advisors, sorority sisters, the OSID staff, fellow PACE mentors and mentees, my professors, classmates and my roommates.
Our Augie bubble, as small as it is, can also be such an empowering and safe space. As an introvert and out-of-state student, it would have been easy for me to just lock myself in my room (I love my bed), but this community made it really easy for me to decide that living life is so much more fun with others.
Peak experience?
My peak experience was successfully securing the full budget I requested from the Student Government Association. This came after presenting my first-ever contingency — a detailed breakdown of expenses and justification — to fund a mural for the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American House. This was a really important goal for me because it was truly a passion project from our former Asian Student Organization president and myself (VP at the time).
What surprised you?
The most surprising thing about Augie is the people! Having been born and raised in Colorado, it was a culture shock to see so many people from different walks of lives, countries and states all in one place ... especially when I initially thought Rock Island was just a regular tiny liberal arts school in the middle of nowhere.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I went to Brazil! It was truly one of the best experiences in my life. I also got to avoid the worst of a Midwestern winter since it was a J-term study abroad. It was a unique experience especially because we got to live with host families. It really helped me get immersed. I wish it had been longer!
What will you miss the most?
I will sound like a broken record, but it's truly the people. This community in the Quad Cities is truly so kind and beautiful if you make the most of it, and I don't just mean only the people at Augie. I will also miss the duck noodles at Soi 2, canoeing at Loud Thunder Forest Preserve, shopping at Costco with my roommates, and all the random weekend events. I didn't even have a car on campus until my senior year, and I was never bored here. I will miss this found family.
Advice for the Class of 2029?
DON'T BE SHY! You will be your own biggest hero and villain. People will not think twice or care. It is your mentality and actions that reflect the most on your own perspective of yourself. Don't be shy to ask for help, reach out to others or be authentically yourself.
"Alexis is a natural leader. She joined the Political Science Student Advisory Council as a sophomore and immediately took the lead, organizing council activities, working with council members on projects and sharing her perspectives at department meetings. During the study abroad program in Brazil, she was the most engaged and curious student in the group, constantly asking thoughtful questions and making connections across the various program activities. With her work ethic, curiosity and collaborative spirit, she shows the kind of potential that makes me excited to see where her journey leads next."