Darius Graves

High school: Peoria High School

Hometown: Peoria, Ill.

Majors: Political science, Asian studies

Minors: Communication studies, Chinese 

Activities: Mahjong Club, Go Club, Student Government Association (SGA)

Internship: Shadowing Rock Island City Council Alderwoman Linda Barnes

Post-grad plans: I plan to enter the workforce, and after a year or two of experience, enter grad school.

Why Augustana?

I chose Augustana for a multitude of reasons, the most cliché being the financial aid package and scholarships they offered, making them one of the most affordable. But the main reason I chose Augustana was the courses offered and the professors teaching them. I was ecstatic to find a college that had a Chinese language program, and the professors made me feel like a part of the community on day one.

Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?

Not at all. I thought I would do what I did in high school; go to class and go home. But that was not the case. I have gotten involved in many things on campus, like the Mahjong Club, where I became the president. I have also made some lifelong friendships that push me to be the best me. For example, they pushed me to run for Division 4 Senator of the SGA.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

There were a lot of people who helped me get to where I am today — starting off with my mom, who pushed me to strive for my best, but also to be realistic in my goals. 

I would also like to thank the members of the poli sci department, who have all imparted something to me, be it education or life skills, always showing concern. In addition, the Chinese language department, but even more the language building, which I consider my home away from home and made me feel like part of the family, like I belonged. Especially after a long day of classes, it felt nice to have a place to just talk and relax, and the language building was that oasis for me.

But I can't forget my friends who stayed up all night with me to study together, the late-night dinner runs or our hangouts where we talked about life and school. Thank you, guys!!!

Peak experience?

My peak experience came from our J-term trip to China, where we were able to immerse ourselves not only in Chinese culture but also in food, history and daily life. The trip also helped me improve my Chinese language skills, while also allowing me to meet many great people. I personally loved visiting the museums, historical sites and temples.

What surprised you?

My biggest surprise came when I ran for SGA senator, as I also had the thought in the back of my mind of who would vote for me. But in my senior year I overcame my fear and ran for a senator seat and won. It has brought me so much joy to represent the student body and to work with my fellow senators to make the Augustana experience better for the next generation of students.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice to help pay for my China J-term trip. And it was well worth it. We got to see so many beautiful sights. 10/10 would recommend.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss the community we have made as the Class of 2026. I will miss the friends I have made along the way, as we will have to go our separate ways. Finally, I will miss the professors who supported and pushed me to be the best me I can be. But I will say I am ready to face what the future holds, and no matter how far away my friends are, they are only a call away.

Advice for the Class of 2030?

Be open to change. Not everything will go as planned, and sometimes you will have to change your plans completely. But never give up. Try a different route, take that class you aren't sure you'll like. You might just find yourself on the right path.