Kaden Micklos

High school: Pace High School

Hometown: Pace, Fla.

Majors: Musical theatre; theatre history

Activities: Augustana Choir, Augustana Chamber Singers, Delta Omega Nu fraternity, Heywire Improv, Alpha Psi Omega Theatre Honor Society 

Post-grad plans: I will be actively pursuing a career in acting. Auditioning, training and gaining professional experience while building connections within the theatre community.

Why Augustana?

When I was choosing colleges, I intentionally left room for a wild card or a school that might surprise me. Augustana College did exactly that. 

Even as a Florida student visiting in the middle of January, I found myself completely taken by the campus. Beyond its beauty, what resonated with me was its deep respect for tradition and the strong sense of community that comes with it. It felt like a place where I could both belong and grow.

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

I always knew I’d get involved in college. I just didn’t realize how all in I would go. Looking back, that’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made. It’s helped me deepen the things I love while also pushing me to try new and challenging experiences I might not have otherwise taken on. 

At Augie, I found myself stepping into spaces that felt completely different from one another, and I realized they didn’t have to compete or conflict. I could be and do all of those things at once.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

The people who have helped me most in getting to where I am today are my wonderful advisor, Shelley Cooper, and our amazing tech director, Mike Turczynski. 

They’ve both played such a big role in my growth, not just as an artist but as a person. They’ve given me the skills and knowledge to keep pursuing what I love, while also pushing me to take on challenges I might not have chosen on my own. 

Because of them, I’ve had access to incredible educational and professional opportunities that have shaped where I’m headed. I’m really grateful for their endless support.

My family has always been my foundation, encouraging me every step of the way and believing in me. 

I’m thankful for my fraternity brothers, who have given me a sense of belonging, support and lifelong friendship. I also owe so much to the upperclassmen who came before me, welcomed me in and taught me what it really means to be part of the Augustana community.

Peak experience?

My peak experience is a tie between winning Mr. Augustana my sophomore year and directing "Edges" for the theatre department. Mr. Augustana was full of joy, community and support, while directing "Edges" challenged me creatively and helped me grow as a leader and artist. 

I feel grateful and happy to have had experiences here that were both fun and deeply fulfilling.

What surprised you?

What surprised me most is how much the work you do is valued. I didn’t expect the level of support and encouragement that comes with being involved here. In classrooms, rehearsals and leadership roles, I’ve found that effort is noticed and appreciated, which has made me feel motivated and confident to keep growing.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I will be using my Augie Choice after graduation to travel abroad with the Augustana Choir to Scandinavia for our choir tour. We will perform at historic venues like the Uppsala Cathedral in Sweden.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss the bonds I’ve made with the people here and the countless core memories we created together. From everyday moments to major milestones, the relationships I’ve built have made this place feel like home. I’ll miss the sense of community, the shared experiences and the feeling of being surrounded by people who have truly shaped my college journey in the best way.

Advice for the Class of 2030?

Say yes more than you think you should, but learn when to say no. Take the picture, go to the thing, talk to the person. Four years move fast, but the memories will linger longer than the sleep you’ll miss.