Jordan Schneckloth
Graduation year: 2026
High school: Mundelein Consolidated High School
Hometown: Mundelein, Ill.
Majors: Political science; sociology/anthropology
Activities: Delta Omega Nu fraternity, varsity men's volleyball, Student Government Association (SGA), Model U.N., Legal Association, Politics Club
Internships: Embassy of Greece; Office of U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth; Lt. Governor Stratton's U.S. Senate Campaign
Post-grad plans: Pursue a master's in international relations. Become the U.S. ambassador to Cyprus.
Why Augustana?
Augustana was an obvious choice because of my family's connection to the area and the opportunity to play volleyball while I continued my education. Augie's academic reputation precedes itself, and the alumni I talked with had nothing but the best to say about the student life and tightly knit community, which sold my decision on the school.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
By no means am I where I thought I'd be. The naive and unsure student-athlete I was is nothing like the passionate and determined individual this school has encouraged me to become. Whether it be studying abroad 3x in Latin America and East Asia, joining Greek life or applying all I've learned in life-changing professional opportunities, Augustana is truly what you make of it.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
A few names come to mind: Dr. Horner Brackett, Dr. Xiaowen Zhang, Dr. Mariano Magalhães and CORE advisor Claire Brakel Packer.
After an odd conversation about LEGOs, Dr. Horner Brackett connected me with my first professional opportunity in politics. Dr. Zhang and Dr. Magalhães broadened my political understanding beyond the borders of our nation. Ms. Packer in the CORE office guided my professional journey thus far, and pushed me to challenge my own expectation for myself.
Whether it be meetings to discuss global events or internship searches or to simply catch up, the faculty at Augustana are thoughtful, caring and determined to help their students succeed however they can.
Peak experience?
There isn't one specific moment I suppose, but a series of events during the latter half of my junior year: studying abroad in China with Dr. Zhang, coming home to my internship with the Office of U.S. Senator Duckworth, and then finishing the school year by beginning my work at the Embassy of Greece in Washington, D.C. The individuals involved in helping me achieve everything that spring semester changed my life for the better.
What surprised you?
The amount of support you'll find if you take the initiative to look. The people are welcoming and caring here if you devote the time to get to know them. The faculty, including President Talentino, will move heaven and Earth to support your academic and professional passions.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice to study abroad in China and Hong Kong with Dr. Xiaowen Zhang's "China in World Affairs" class during J-term. Traveling to a country whose culture and society is much different from your own is an invaluable experience that Augustana provides.
What will you miss the most?
I'd have to say the Augustana community. Whether it be the family of friends I made in Greek life, the competitive culture of Augustana's sports or the peers and faculty you get to know in class, the people at Augustana are ambitious and passionate and push you to become the best version of who you want to be.
Advice for the Class of 2030?
Don't be afraid to ask questions. Be unapologetically yourself. Make time to do homework and have fun. I promise you it's worth it.
"Jordan is one of the most thoughtful and engaged students I’ve had in the last 10 years. In class, I knew I could always count on Jordan to strengthen discussions by asking insightful questions, listening carefully to classmates and responding with respect. Friendly, positive and deeply considerate, Jordan’s intellectual curiosity and dedication will serve him well as he pursues graduate study in international affairs and a career in diplomacy."