Emily Timmons

Majors: English and creative writing

Minor: Art history

Activities: Varsity swimming, Chi Alpha Pi sorority, Saga Magazine, Club Water Polo, Order of Omega, River Readings Series, Omicron Delta Kappa leadership honor society

Post-grad plans: I am currently looking for an entry-level position in publishing, editing or book publicity in the Chicago area.

Why did you choose to attend Augustana?

I picked Augustana because it felt like home on my first visit, even though it was horrifically cold outside. I can't pinpoint exactly why I fell in love with Augie that day — it might've been the fact that everyone was so kind, or that the campus was beautiful. But by the time my visit was over, I didn't want to leave.

Are you where you thought you’d be four years ago? 

Yes and no. I’m still an English major, but adding the creative writing major and the art history minor were things I didn’t think I’d do. I knew I’d swim all four years, but I never thought I’d improve my personal best times so drastically and rank on the Top 10 list. I knew I wanted to get involved in new things, but I never guessed that I’d be elected for leadership roles in multiple organizations, or that I’d be involved in so much.

Who helped you get to where you are now? 

My parents were always very supportive when I told them I was joining something new or running for a leadership position. They never told me I couldn’t do something. They respected that my college experience was my own, and I’m grateful for that.

A peak experience?

Founding the first-ever Life Raft Debate through Order of Omega was one peak experience. It was the first time I’d had an idea that I got to see through to fruition, and it was the first time I realized how much I could rely on other people to help. I was also able to establish a women’s water polo club team last year separate from the men’s so that we could become more competitive. Finally, working as a student assistant to the River Readings and working with Saga as a poetry board editor gave me valuable experience that I hope to apply to my future career.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used Augie Choice to support myself during the two internships I held in spring term this year.

What did you learn about yourself in these past four years that surprised you? 

I learned that I’m much more driven, productive and outgoing than I thought I was.

What will you miss the most?

My swim team is a big one. My best friends have come from the team, and we’ve all become so close over the last few years as we watched the program grow. I still can’t believe that it’s over. Greek life is another one. When it comes down to it though, I’m really just going to miss seeing my friends every day.

Advice for the Class of 2017?

Get involved, and try everything! A class could inspire you to take on a new major or minor. Joining a club could lead you to a future career. You never know!