Alyssa Ogrodny

High school: Montini Catholic High School

Hometown: Homer Glen, Ill.

Majors: Theatre (tech and design); theatre (history); psychology

Minors: Women, gender, sexuality studies; graphic design

Activities: Alpha Psi Omega Theatre Honor Society; Psi Chi International Honor Society; Iota Iota Iota

Internship: A builder for Skellington Manor in Rock Island

Post-grad plans: Attend Lewis University in Romeoville, Ill., to pursue my master's in adult clinical mental health counseling

Why Augustana?

From the beginning of my college search, I knew I wanted a small school where I could build meaningful connections. When I visited Augustana, I immediately felt at home. Beyond its beautiful campus, what stood out most was the welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community. It felt like a place where I could grow academically and personally while being supported by those around me.

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

Not at all. I came to Augustana undecided and never imagined I would graduate with three majors and two minors. I quickly discovered countless opportunities on and off campus that shaped my path. These experiences pushed me to grow in unexpected ways, and I’m excited to continue that journey in graduate school.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

I have been incredibly fortunate to have a strong support system throughout my college journey:
• Mike Turczynski, my advisor, mentor and boss, believed in me even before I arrived at Augustana, and his guidance, encouragement and trust in my abilities have been invaluable.
• Dr. Popple has played a major role in my growth through four years of stage management, continually inspiring me with her creativity, leadership and dedication to each production.
• Dr. Nordling helped me navigate my psychology major and encouraged me to think broadly about the many career paths within the field.

I am also deeply grateful to the entire theatre faculty for their support and mentorship.

Finally, my friends and family have been a constant source of encouragement, and I would not be where I am today without them.

Peak experience?

One of the most meaningful experiences I had was working on "Queen of the Greeks," a fully student-run production. Being part of this show allowed me to take on greater responsibility and collaborate closely with my peers in a creative environment. I gained valuable hands-on experience and learned so much throughout the process, making it both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

What surprised you?

I was surprised by how small and personal Augustana feels. My largest class had around 30 students, which made learning more engaging. I was also struck by how approachable professors are, and building those relationships showed me how important connection and mentorship are.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice to help cover housing during my internship at Skellington Manor in Rock Island. This allowed me to gain experience beyond campus, explore the Quad Cities and further develop my skills in a professional setting.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss the strong sense of community at Augustana. Being involved in different programs allowed me to connect with people from many majors and backgrounds. In nearly every class, I either knew someone or quickly made new friends. The welcoming and supportive environment made it easy to build relationships and truly feel at home.

Advice for the Class of 2030?

Don’t be afraid to take risks. College offers many opportunities, and trying something new can lead to growth. It may feel intimidating, but putting yourself out there can open doors you never expected.