Madelyn Garrigan

High school: Bartlett High School

Hometown: Bartlett, Ill.

Majors: Public health; sociology/anthropology

Minors: Biology; women, gender, and sexuality studies

Activities: Augustana Symphonic Band, Clarinet Choir, SAI music service fraternity

Internship: Noaks Ark Stockholm

Post-grad plans: Work for a non-profit

Why Augustana?

Prior to my college search, I had never heard of Augustana or the Quad Cities. However, as soon as I did my first virtual visit, I knew this was the school for me. I knew I'd thrive in environments with smaller class sizes, and I had a really positive admissions experience. Augie felt like home.

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

If you had told me four years ago that I would be a public health and sociology/anthropology major, I never would have believed you! I came into Augie as a pre-physical therapy major, but through the liberal arts environment, I was introduced to majors that encompassed what I was passionate about, but never knew I could study.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

The first person is Dr. Croll, who introduced me to sociology and pushed me to step outside of my comfort zone to switch my majors. I also need to thank Dr. Kaul, who inspired me to dream big and was always available to talk through anything I needed. 

I also need to shout out Dr. Hann for supporting me throughout the past two years. I never would have had the opportunity to go to Sweden without her. I've also learned through her how to be a professional, and to always take advantage of available opportunities. 

Thank you to Dr. Matera and Dr. Lambrecht for giving me a home at Augustana through the music department. Music has shaped a lot of my experience, and I'm grateful for the lessons I've learned from both of them. Another person is Beth Ford, my first-year advisor, who ended up supporting me all four years. 

Finally, I obviously need to thank my parents. Their unwavering support and trust have been an anchor for me!

Peak experience?

My peak experience was the opportunity to travel abroad. My first experience was traveling to Japan with the Augustana Symphonic Band. The most rewarding was my summer in Sweden. I was able to create my own program, where I completed an internship for five weeks, then spent three weeks taking courses through the Uppsala International Summer Session. Living abroad for 10 weeks was an amazing experience that I will take with me forever.

What surprised you?

I've been so surprised by the ability to double major at Augie. Everyone I know has either a double major or a major and minor! I never thought that I'd be able to easily graduate with two majors and two minors.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice to help cover costs for my trip to Sweden.

What will you miss the most?

I will definitely miss the community that I have formed here. I've met people that I know I will have with me for life. It will be so weird not seeing my friends and professors every day!

Advice for the Class of 2030?

Be flexible. You might think you have a plan, but allow yourself to deviate from it. Take classes for things you're interested in! I know that I would not be nearly as happy as I am now if I hadn't allowed myself to figure out what I truly like instead of sticking to the plan I set for myself.