Benjamin Schultz

High school: Sunset High School

Hometown: Portland, Ore.

Major: Engineering – mechanical

Activities: Varsity men's volleyball

Post-grad plans: Return to Portland and pursue Nike's footwear engineering department

Why Augustana?

Augustana's welcoming students, faculty and staff were a key contributor to my decision to attend Augie. Having a school that has your best interests in mind as a student and as a person cemented my choice.

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

I have made it farther than I ever would have hoped. They have encouraged me academically and athletically, while providing me with the chance to travel the world. I feel prepared to take on the next chapter of my life.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

I would first like to appreciate my parents Beth and Brian Schultz. They have had my back every step of the way, be it at volleyball games, academics and travel. 

Secondly, my Head Coach Mike Ducey. One of the reasons I picked Augustana was because of him. His character, attitude and overall belief in his players was not only the perfect representation of Augie, but also what I needed to be successful. 

Additionally, Coach Taryn VanEarwage. She was always open to getting extra reps with our graduating class, spending her own time to help us players improve. 

Finally, I would like to thank Dr. Joshua Dyer for being the biggest engineering influence I had on campus. Quick with an answer (and a joke), he was someone I could always count on to be there for me academically. He and his family welcomed me to their home, and I never felt ill-prepared from his lectures.

Peak experience?

The greatest experience Augustana provided me has been the past five years of Augie volleyball. The teammates and coaches that I have had the opportunity to mentor and be mentored by have been unforgettable. 

This team has been through thick and thin together, victories and defeats. Nonetheless we prevailed together and always gave it our all. To be able to play with these amazing people and grow as a leader has been the best experience Augustana has given me.

What surprised you?

I was pleasantly surprised by the vast amount of people I met and the level of engineering education I received from Aguie. I have made lifelong friends who I will continue to stay in contact with long into my life, and I will take my engineering to different sides of the country.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice for a trip to Germany with the engineering class of 2024. We studied the history of music, architecture and culture for roughly two months. Not only that, but I became closer with my peers and teachers.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss the people the most. College is what you make it to be, whether it's the education, the athletics or the people. I have made connections with countless people who I will miss dearly. I have found who I am and who I want to be because of those I surrounded myself with, and Augustana gave me that opportunity.

Advice for the Class of 2029?

Join the many extracurricular activities that Augustana has to offer. You will meet your lifelong friends there, find what you like about yourself, and even find something new that you may want to do for the rest of your life. College is absolutely what you make it, so make it good.