Courtney Wehmeier
Graduation year: 2021
High school: Carl Sandburg High School
Hometown: Orland Park, Ill.
Major: International business
Minors: German studies, French
Activities: Advertisement Developers (ADs), Augustana Symphonic Band, EDGE Center, Augustana Web Guild
Internships: EDGE Center Summer Marketing Intensive and Web Guild internship
Post-grad plans: I plan on working at a marketing agency or teaching English abroad.
Why Augustana?
I chose Augustana for the people and its commitment to helping me do what I wanted to do — regardless of how ambitious. (At one point, I was an international business and marketing double major with minors in anthropology and German studies.) But what sealed the deal for me was the EDGE Center and its unlimited possibilities and experiences.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
When I first came to campus, I was overwhelmed with how wonderful and welcoming everyone I met was.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
Doug Tschopp, Andrew Shearouse, James Lambrecht, Emily Cranford and Gillian Lederman were some of the biggest and best influences in my Augustana career. They took the time to get to know me and were always there in a heartbeat to help me navigate all the exciting and difficult periods of my time here at Augustana.
My friends that I made along the way are the most amazing ride-or-die kind of friendships that I don't have to worry about losing...no matter how far apart we are.
Peak experience?
My peak experience was traveling to Dijon, France, with Gillian Lederman. We went wine tasting, celebrated France winning the World Cup, saw the Tour de France bikers in Paris, shopped in open-air markets and learned French side-by-side with people from all over the world.
It pushed me to go outside my comfort zone and helped me realize my love of travel, cultures and languages. This trip is what solidified my decision to major in international business.
What surprised you?
How much I was able to accomplish. In the Advertisement Developers (ADs) group, I had hands-on experience with planning multi-media marketing campaigns, budget management, brand auditing, consumer insights, industry research and campaign evaluation. In addition to this, the EDGE Center allowed me to learn codings, web design and SO MUCH MORE — all in exchange for my time.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used Augie Choice for the Summer Marketing Intensive Internship with the Augustana Web Guild. I was a project manager for nine virtual interns, and we produced marketing and brand materials for real-world clients. This internship also allowed me to take a deep dive into market and consumer insights.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss the acceptance and community the most.
Advice for the Class of 2025?
Invest in yourself! If you've always wanted to do something, then take the time to do it. You will find some of your best mentors and friends this way while also investing in your future happiness. Also, get out in nature with some friends every chance you get.
"I first met Courtney in my elementary French class. She was enthusiastic and bold with a passion to learn all that she could about the French language and languages in general. At the end of her freshman year, she continued her studies in Dijon, France, on our summer study away program. As program director, I spent six weeks with Courtney and her peers soaking up all that Burgundy had to offer. Courtney sets goals and pursues them with drive and determination. I can't wait to hear what is next. It has been an absolute pleasure watching Courtney define her path and realize so many achievements along the way."