Colin McDowell
Graduation year: 2025
High school: Hudsonville High School
Hometown: Jenison, Mich.
Major: Engineering
Activities: Varsity men's water polo
Internship: Part-time student internship at John Deere
Post-grad plans: I plan to go into the John Deere Engineering Development Program (EDP).
Why Augustana?
I chose Augustana because it is one of the few schools that offers engineering and water polo. Additionally, I wanted to start something new and build it from the ground up; this was a unique opportunity at Augustana.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
I'm where I wanted to be when I arrived on campus, thanks to all my support and hard work that everyone put into me.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
There are a ton of people who helped me get to where I am today: God, family, teammates and friends. They all helped me accomplish my goals and pushed me to be the best that I can. For this, I am thankful to everyone who helped me get to where I am today.
Peak experience?
The best experience was playing water polo with all of my teammates. To have a brand-new program in four years, win three conference titles and go to nationals twice, with a third-place finish this year, was an amazing experience. The hard work and dedication that my teammates and I put in really showed, and I'm so glad I got to be a part of it.
What surprised you?
I was surprised at how fast the four years went. Sometimes it dragged, but for the most part, I can't believe I'm a senior and about to graduate.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used Augie Choice to go to Germany through the engineering department. It was an amazing trip and one I would encourage everyone to go on.
What will you miss the most?
My teammates and playing water polo competitively.
Advice for the Class of 2029?
Don't expect to have everything figured out. You're going to learn a lot in college, and not just in the classroom; you're going to learn a lot of skills that are necessary for life and your career. So don't be afraid of failure, but learn from it.
"Colin has been fun to watch as he has made himself an integral part of the Augustana community. He is part of our first cohort in the Bachelor of Science in Engineering program and on the varsity water polo team. I traveled with him on the Alps study away program to Germany and Switzerland, and he has helped build the relationship between Augie and Deere and Co. It will be exciting to see his next steps in engineering."