Amy Bandman
Graduation year: 2013
Majors: Geography
Minor: Mathematics
Activities: Augustana Symphonic Band, Augustana Jazz Ensemble, OSA Tech Team, Phi Beta Kappa
Post-grad plans: Find a job!
Why did you choose to attend Augustana?
I wanted to be a part of a great band program but had no idea what my major might be. I chose Augustana so I could explore my options and still be involved in a great music program.
Are you where you thought you’d be four years ago?
Not at all! I thought I was going to be a math teacher when I started college. Now I’m graduating from Augustana with a geography degree!
Who helped you get to where you are now?
The Community Engagement Center helped me find my niche at Augustana. I was searching for a new major, and they pointed me in the right direction. My geography advisor, Dr. Norm Moline, has been my mentor throughout my years here. He has been so supportive and helpful in getting me to where I am today.
A peak experience?
My peak experience was last summer’s geography trip to the Pacific Northwest. We spent 10 days touring Washington and Oregon and learning about geography nonstop. This was a peak experience because of all the bonding between the students in the geography department and all the things we learned while on the trip. There is nothing like learning out in the field! I will never forget this trip and the beach bonfires along the Pacific Ocean.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used Augie Choice to go to Italy with the Symphonic Band. We traveled all over the country in 10 days, ate great food, saw beautiful cities and experienced Italian culture. Playing concerts in Italy was an unforgettable experience.
What did you learn about yourself in these past four years that surprised you?
I am able to do an insane amount of activities and not go crazy.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss all the friends I’ve made and living in such a close community.
"Amy’s record in her two majors and across the liberal arts curriculum is outstanding, a record that led to her election to Phi Beta Kappa. She shows genuine curiosity about a wide range of topics in classes and field trips and has demonstrated excellence in social science, natural science and technology courses. Building upon her academic record, she has been a great intern this entire year at River Action, the prime local organization for enhancing attention on the Mississippi River. She is an excellent trombone player in the Symphonic Band (section leader). In all of these activities, she has a most unassuming and gracious style. In sum, her breadth of interests, depth of concerns for the future of our society and environment, involvement in the musical arts, and gracious attitudes are what one would wish for all liberal arts students."