Holden Siena

High school: Centennial High School

Hometown: Champaign, Ill.

Majors: Biology, psychology

Activities: Varsity swimming

Internship: Research Intern at Shirley Ryan Ability Lab in Chicago

Post-grad plans: Program in Physical Therapy at Washington University in St. Louis

Why Augustana?

There truly is no place like Augustana. The commitment this school has to make sure everyone feels welcome and supported from the second you arrive on campus is second to none. This school also pushes you to succeed in every facet of your life, not just one or two.

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

Not at all. The experiences I've had and the relationships I've made have helped shape me into the person I could only dream of being when I first stepped foot on campus. If I met my freshman-year-self now, he would be starstruck to know this is the person he's going to become.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

I wouldn't be where I am today without first and foremost the lifelong support and guidance of my parents and sister. Along with that, all of my friends and teammates who have kept every day exciting and made Augie feel like a home away from home! 

I'd also like to thank my lifelong coaches and mentors but most notably Coach Dan Lloyd, who gave me the opportunity four years ago to be able to call myself a collegiate athlete and has always believed in me.

Lastly, I'd like to thank my professors, namely Dr. Scott Gehler, Professor Brad Kennedy, Dr. Megan Lorenz and Dr. Mark Vincent for continuously pushing me to be the best I can be both inside and outside of the classroom.

Peak experience?

I've made enough memories at Augie to last a lifetime, but my peak experience has to be winning Augustana's first CCIW championship in 40 years and then subsequently completing the three-peat with the men's swim team.

In addition to that, having the honor as serving as one of the captains for the last two victories specifically last year (2024), as it came down to the last relay and one of the closest scoring margins in the history of the meet. I don't think I will feel that kind of adrenaline for a long time!

What surprised you?

Honestly, there hasn't really been a lot that surprised me. I am a very decisive person and when I committed to Augie, I knew instantly that it would be the place for me and that I was in for an amazing four years. So I guess what's surprised me the most is just how much the school has both met and exceeded the expectations I had set when I first rang the gong!

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice to cover rent for an apartment in Chicago for my internship this summer at Shirley Ryan Ability Lab. It was a remarkable experience and one I will never forget!

What will you miss the most?

I will miss right when I get off I-74 and get my first glimpse of the river before entering into town. I still remember the first time I came to campus and all the exciting and jittery feelings that came over me the first time I made that drive. 

Even though I have now made the drive dozens of times, I still get that same little twinge of excitement every time I enter the Quad Cities.

Advice for the Class of 2029?

Don't be afraid to take chances. Whether it's joining a new club, going to a new social event or talking to somebody new, you never know what amazing plans life has in store for you!