Ryan Bacorn
Graduation year: 2026
High school: United Township High School
Hometown: East Moline, Ill.
Majors: History education; middle grades social sciences
Activities: History Club, NAMI, Pickleball Club, Phi Alpha Theta, Omicron Sigma Omicron (honorary member)
Internships: History department intern; student teaching
Post-grad plans: High school history teacher
Why Augustana?
I chose to go to Augustana because as someone from the Quad Cities, I knew that it has a great reputation within the community and beyond, and that it has a great history/education program.
Also, as a transfer student from Black Hawk College, their close connection drew me in as I knew it would make things a lot easier for credits to transfer. Also, you just can't beat the Slough path in the fall!
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
Not at all! As a transfer student, I honestly expected to feel a bit out of place and spend most of my time in the library studying.
Much to my surprise, I hit it off with a group of friends during Welcome Week and have joined multiple clubs, gone to quite a few social events, held a couple different campus jobs, taken classes way out of my comfort zone and expertise (one taught by President Talentino!), learned so much and made lifelong friends. That's honestly all I could have hoped for.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My parents have been my #1 supporters my entire life and been right with me every step of the way. My older brother helped pave the way for me to follow in his footsteps for much of my life and helped me develop the confidence to step out of those footprints and make my own.
My best friends have helped me become my best self, helping break through my shell and become an "academic weapon." All my teachers and professors, including one who I would consider my mentor, have helped me so much in growing as a person and building my expertise and confidence in my field, and finally helping me shed (most) of my impostor syndrome.
There have been so many people who have left an impression on me, and I am forever grateful. I know I wouldn't be the same person I am today without my support system.
Peak experience?
It's hard to pick one, so I picked a single day: Symposium Day 2025. I got to go to a lecture that was standing-room-only, went thrifting and tried a new coffee shop with my best friends, came back to campus and worked a fairly calm shift as an ACES driver, relaxed with a few friends watching "Dancing with the Stars" before playing some board games and listening to great music. It was a very packed day, but I am fortunate to have a myriad of peak experiences to choose from.
What surprised you?
I was surprised just how active the campus culture is. I always knew college was going to be a busy time, but I never expected to have to pick and choose because there were so many good events I wanted to go to, but I couldn't make it to them all. That was a very good problem to have. I also didn't expect to make friends from so many different majors and walks of life!
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I am using mine for student teaching! It has helped cover travel costs, food and building a professional wardrobe for teaching.
What will you miss the most?
Honestly, I'm going to miss just walking across campus from one class to the next. Pretty much every single day, I get a friendly nod, wave or fist bump from somebody I know. I will miss how connected the campus community is! I'll also miss being able to live in a walkable area and having everything be so nearby.
Advice for the Class of 2030?
Take the time to explore. Explore your career, your mind, the campus, the Quad Cities. Whatever you do, make the most of your time here!
"Ryan, a transfer student, settled in quickly to all things Augie. He is an outstanding student who thinks critically and independently, traits which have served him well as a major in history education and which will serve his future students well in the classroom."