Carson Ghys

High school: Warren Township High School

Hometown: Gurnee, Ill.

Major: Engineering physics

Activities: Varsity lacrosse, Sigma Pi Sigma (Physics and Astronomy National Honor Society)

Internships: Smart connected factory engineer at John Deere; civil engineering intern for the Village of Gurnee

Post-grad plans: Civil engineer for the Village of Gurnee, Ill. 

Why Augustana?

I chose Augustana for many reasons; however, the main persuasions were the ability to succeed as a student-athlete, have close relationships with my professors, pursue a degree that I was interested in and be at one of the most beautiful small colleges.

To elaborate more on these influences, it was important for me to continue playing lacrosse in college, but I also wanted to be successful in the classroom and in my future career as an engineer. Augustana made this possible.

Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?

I am further than I thought I would be when I started here as a freshman. I had no clue that I would be able to take an entire semester off from being ahead on credits and working while being in school for a year and a half. 

Gaining internship experience for that long while obtaining knowledge from school has benefited me by knowing what I want to do for the rest of my life, along with me being able to stick out more to employers.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

Dr. Dyer was my biggest inspiration and supporter. He was a big influence on why I came here in the first place. Being able to have a personal connection with my advisor allowed me to feel comfortable asking questions, along with him being a great reference. He also helped me get my internship, which I am truly grateful for. 

My classmates also played a role in helping me get to where I am at today by always being a great support system and references for one another. The engineering and physics departments are very close with each other and always willing to help with anything, which is truly amazing and isn’t always the same at other schools.

Peak experience?

My peak experience was by far using my Augie Choice to be a part of the Innovation in the Alps study-away program. This opportunity was led by my advisor, Dr. Dyer, and we traveled all around Germany and Switzerland. Before our trip, my classmates and I were enrolled in an Engineering Ethics course and Music in Germany course, where we learned all about German history with an emphasis on German engineering and music. The trip was definitely an experience of a lifetime.

What surprised you?

The engineering department's expansion was something that really surprised me and was exciting to see. Being here to witness these changes and taking part in interviewing potential new professors for the new B.S.E. degrees really made me feel involved. I wanted to ensure that students following in my steps would be in good hands, along with learning subjects in an effective way.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss the Augustana community and campus the most. There is always something going on or to do, and walking around campus is always beautiful no matter what the weather is. Being a part of the engineering physics program is something I will truly miss because these are people I went through all of college with and traveled the world with as well. 

I also will miss being a part of the lacrosse team. We are a tight-knit group, and I hope to be an inspiration to the team.

Advice for the Class of 2028?

Having a good relationship with your advisor is extremely important. Your advisor is the person who will potentially help you land your dream job, but they are also someone you can talk to about future classes, possible internships or anything you want. Your advisor wants to see you succeed.