Travon Aldridge
Graduation year: 2018
Majors: Business administration-management, communication studies
Activities: Varsity football and varsity track & field (CCIW Academic All-Conference in football and track & field from 2014-2018; NCAA Division III All-American in indoor triple jump in 2018, and multiple other awards and honors); intramural basketball
Internship: Summer internship in web design at Augustana’s EDGE Center
Post-grad plans: I plan on joining the workforce—a position in logistics or supply management.
Why Augustana?
I chose Augustana for sports, and I was also offered a great financial packet that allowed me to continue my education past high school.
Are you where you thought you’d be when you first came to campus?
Academically, yes. I always strive to be a great student in the classroom, so I expected to continue to excel in that part of my career. On the athletics side, I had no idea I would accomplish all the things I have thus far. What I've accomplished were just long-term goals at one point in my life. I would say I have excelled where I thought I would as an athlete.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My family helped me out a lot by paying for me to continue my education. They also serve as a great support system for me, by providing me with everything I needed to get to where I am today. Coaches and staff have also had a significant influence on my career. Also the Rock Island community in general. Because I am a commuter, I have been lucky to have great support from the surrounding community.
Peak experience?
Traveling to Italy with the football team. It was the first time I had been on a plane and out of the country. So being able to experience a culture other than mine was really great.
What surprised you?
I've learned how dedicated I am to the things I want in life. I've learned that through the very process of achieving the goals I set for myself. Because of that I have gained confidence in myself, and it definitely has helped me excel in certain aspects of my life.
How did you use Augie Choice?
I used Augie Choice to help fund my trip to Italy.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss the relationships I have created with not only my fellow students but the staff as well.
Advice for the Class of 2022?
Make the most of this experience and look to expand and go outside of your comfort zone. I may sound like a broken record, but college really does go by fast.
“I have enjoyed knowing Travon for the last three years, both as one of his teachers and one of his advisors. He is humble but has a quiet self-assurance that has been wonderful to watch grow over these few years. As a self-motivated learner, he expects to work hard and consistently. He has a great sense of humor, never clamors to be in front of the line, but has a presence that makes him get noticed among students.”