Gracie Gwozdz

High school: Downers Grove North

Hometown: Downers Grove, Ill.

Major: Women, gender, and sexuality studies (WGSS)

Minors: Disability studies, art

Activities: ACES (Augustana College Express Service), Best Buddies, Sierra Club

Post-grad plans: I am searching for jobs in the social services field. I am looking for opportunities to create positive change for marginalized groups in my community, and I am particularly interested in mental health and substance abuse advocacy.

Why Augustana?

I chose Augustana because I wanted to have access to more individualized support. I love having personal relationships with my professors who know me and know how to support me.

Also, as a WGSS major, many of the courses I take are very discussion-based. It is so nice to be able to have class discussions and get to know my peers. The smaller class sizes create a more personal and relaxed environment where I feel very comfortable.

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

I had no idea where I thought I would be now. Initially, I wanted to major in art education, but then I found out about the WGSS program. This major paired with the disability studies minor has been absolutely perfect for me. 

I spent a lot of my time in high school feeling lost, and coming to college really helped me find myself. I now have a stronger sense of self and a newfound confidence in my future and purpose.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

My parents have been my biggest support system since day one, and I don’t know where I would be without them. I faced many challenges before I got to Augustana, but they never stopped rooting for me. My parents are my best friends, and I don’t think I would be here, graduating from college, if I didn’t have them by my side.

I can’t say I’ve had a single negative experience with any of my WGSS professors, and they are some of the most genuine people I’ve met during my time here. Every professor I’ve had has been so obviously passionate about what they teach, and their impact has guided me toward what I want to pursue in the future.

Lastly, I want to give a big shoutout to Tom Phillis. As an ACES director, I have gotten to work very closely with him, and he has given me such an amazing opportunity to be a leader on campus. I am so thankful for the time I got to spend with ACES and everything I have gained from it. I will really miss getting to work with Chief Phillis once I graduate.

Peak experience?

My peak experience was having the opportunity to be an ACES director. Having so much responsibility was intimidating at first, but this experience has given me so much confidence in my abilities. I have learned so much from having this leadership position, and I strongly believe that this role has equipped me with skills that I will take with me for the rest of my career.

What surprised you?

How fast college goes by! I know everyone says that, but it really is true. I feel like I was a freshman not that long ago, and now I’m graduating. It’s crazy!

What will you miss the most?

The community aspect of college. Not living on the same campus as all of my friends and peers is something that will definitely take some getting used to. We are all going to end up in different places, and next year, I won’t be able to just walk a few minutes to get to a friend’s house. I may have to drive a few hours or talk to them on the phone. I am really going to miss the closeness of our campus and getting to live near all of my best friends.

Advice for the Class of 2029?

Don’t feel pressured to find your people right away! It may take some time to find a group of friends that you click with, but you shouldn’t get discouraged if it does take some time. Even though Augustana isn’t a huge school, there is always someone new to meet. You will find your people, I promise.