Gaetano Iaccarino
Graduation year: 2012
Majors: Anthropology and music
Activities: Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Wennerberg Choir
Post-grad plans: Live in São Paulo, Brazil, for a year to study Portuguese, teach English and apply for graduate programs in anthropology
Why did you choose to attend Augustana?
I chose Augustana because it provides its students with generous scholarship that allows for a liberal arts experience.
Are you where you thought you’d be four years ago?
Four years ago, I was attending Augustana for music education. Now I am finishing my degree in anthropology and could not be happier!
Who helped you get to where you are now?
Augustana's professors have been a positive influence in my college experience. The passion they have for their work has set an example of how I want to live my life. I am honored to have been taught by them.
A peak experience?
My peak experience occurred when I discovered how much I enjoyed learning about anthropology. The professors and staff in the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Welfare have been amazing.
What did you learn about yourself in these past four years that surprised you?
Most of the time, it is OK to make mistakes as long as you learn from them.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss Augustana's campus and how it fosters growth socially, spiritually and intellectually.
Advice for this fall’s incoming class (Class of 2016)?
Come to Augustana with an open mind and follow your instincts.
“Guy has an exceptional drive. From the first time I met him several years ago, he wanted to find a way to make Brazilian culture his focus. A double major in anthropology and music was a perfect fit. During his time in college, he’s researched Brazilian folk music, how the globalization of industrialized agriculture impacts Brazil, and Brazil’s indigenous population, among other topics. After graduation, he will be taking yet another trip to Brazil to hone his language skills before applying for graduate school in anthropology.”