Blogs by Author

So you're coming to fall visit day

There's a lot going on during Fall Visit Day. Here's where to go and what to expect for everyone planning to join us for this big day. 

Mikaela Ferrara
October 7, 2019

Little Lesson on Microagressions

Microaggressions are daily indignities that happen in conversation and come from intentional of unintentional bias. At the core, they're based on stereotypes. Dr. Monica Smith teaches us how to recognize microaggressions and how to draw attention to them in a non-confrontational way to create access and reduce stereotypes.

October 1, 2019

No regrets: coming to Augustana from California

Every time I tell someone here that I’m from San Diego, California, I get the same response every single time: “What?! Why are you here in Illinois?!” 

Sophia Gilmore
Sophia Gilmore
September 30, 2019

6 tips if you're looking to transfer schools

If you’re looking to transfer, consider these six tips before you make your decision on a new school. If you consider these six steps, you’ll be closer to finding the best fit for you.

Chelsea Meyer
Chelsea Meyer
September 26, 2019

The difference between public and private colleges/universities

When you’re beginning your college search, you may be confused about what distinguishes a private institution from a public one. Learn how to clear up the confusion and get a better idea about what both kinds of schools have to offer.

Justin Verlinden
Justin Verlinden
September 25, 2019

What makes a campus beautiful? It's more than you think.

College campuses are known to be beautiful because of academic buildings and classrooms, but there is more than physical beauty. The memories made with friends at the quad and in residence halls are just as important.

Chelsea Meyer
Chelsea Meyer
September 23, 2019

Why I chose Augustana over a state school

Justin got into his dream school - a public university a few states over with the track team he always dreamed of being on. But after visiting, he realized that it wasn't the right fit for him. 

Justin Verlinden
Justin Verlinden
September 12, 2019

The Ultimate Get-into-College Guide for high school juniors

Junior year can be a stressful time for you and your family, but it doesn't have to be. Here's our best advice from Karen Dahlstrom, the Executive Director of Admissions. 

September 9, 2019

How to prepare for your first college visit

Visiting schools is one of the most integral (and fun) parts of the college selection process. Schools may look great on paper, but the only way to know if the school is the right fit for you is to go and get a feel for campus life. 

Justin Verlinden
Justin Verlinden
September 3, 2019

7 must-pack items: a CA's advice for incoming students

As a community advisor, Mary gets a lot of questions about dorm essentials. Here are the top seven things you shouldn't leave behind when packing to move in to your freshmen year dorm.  

Mary Isabel Sales
Mary Isabel Sales
August 21, 2019

Justin's dorm essentials

Your dorm means more than a TV and a game console. If you think you're unprepared to move in, Justin has some great advice for you. 

Justin Verlinden
Justin Verlinden
August 19, 2019

Why I Decided to Go Greek

Emily never expected to join a sorority. She thought she knew everything about "those" groups - but after spending some time on Augie's campus she was surprised to find that her initial judgment was way off base. 

Emily Graziano
Emily Graziano
August 16, 2019

What I learned leaving home for the first time

Justin lived away from his family and hometown for the first time during his internship at Texas Medical Center. He learned a lot about himself, his future and how he sees the world. 

Justin Verlinden
Justin Verlinden
August 14, 2019

For the birds: Greenland field journal #4

Jacob and the Greenland research crew spend a night camping and must be on the lookout for polar bears. Atlantic puffins are caught. 

Jacob Wyco
Jacob Wyco
August 6, 2019