Kyle Workman
Graduation year: 2019
Hometown: Morrison, Ill.
Majors: Computer science, applied mathematics
Activities: Swimming (two years), Concert Band, Delta Omega Nu fraternity, Phi Beta Kappa
Internship: Augustana College ITS Department
Post-grad plans: I will be working for Cerner as a software developer in Kansas City, Mo.
Why Augustana?
I chose Augustana because it was close to home and affordable with the scholarships I received. Also, I just really loved the atmosphere and the people every time I visited campus. Augustana felt like a new, welcoming home to me.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
In some ways, I am where I thought I would be. For example, I continued with computer science and have succeed in my studies. Also, I have gained a lot of experience in the field. However, at the same time, I am not where I expected because I have gained more experience, learned how to use more tools and have worked on more projects than I thought I would before going into the industry.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My swim coach, Dan Lloyd, helped me get to where I am today by always encouraging me and the other swimmers to put schoolwork first. He was always supportive and pushed us to be the best people we could be. Secondly, my advisor Dr. Stonedahl always encouraged me to go above and beyond what was required for classes. This resulted in my work on the Augustana College Express Service (ACES) app.
Peak experience?
Honestly, it is hard to choose just one peak experience. First, swimming during my freshman year was a peak experience in itself. This is because I dropped crazy amounts of time from senior year in high school, received the Most Improved Swimmer award, and formed many lasting friendships with my fellow swimmers. Secondly, the release of the ACES app was another peak experience. The development of the ACES app allowed me to demonstrate my computer science skills that I gained throughout college. Furthermore, it gave me the opportunity to learn more computer science skills like iOS development.
What surprised you?
Something I learned about myself that surprised me is that I was able to make a lot of friends and be more social around new people.
How did you use Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice to help pay for living expenses while interning at Augustana's ITS Department over the summer.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss spending time with my friends. Whether it’s staying up late studying for an exam, taking a trip to Whitey’s or binge-watching “Friends” on Netflix, I will miss the people I shared these experiences with.
Advice for the Class of 2023?
Make the most out of your time at Augustana. Four years may seem like a long time, but time flies by. Just remember to enjoy the time you have here.
“I have known Kyle throughout his whole Augustana journey, beginning in Welcome Week as his first-year advisor. It has been an absolute pleasure to observe how he has flourished in a college setting, from a shy/quiet student into a mature/confident computing professional. I was particularly impressed by Kyle's ability to work independently on challenging projects like the ACES app. While his thoughtful perspective will be greatly missed in my classroom, I am proud to see him graduate as the recipient of the McLaughlin Award in Computer Science!”