Atticus Garrison
Graduation year: 2017
Majors: History and religion
Activities: Augustana Gaming Club, Augustana Concert Band
Internships: Augustana Historical Society Museum and the London Canal Museum
Post-grad plans: Earn a master’s in library science for a career in archival work. I have been accepted to the University of Iowa, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Why Augustana?
I chose Augustana because of its beautiful campus and amazing professors.
Are you where you thought you’d be when you first came to campus?
I have surpassed where I thought I would be. I came to Augustana knowing I wanted to work in history but did not have an idea of what that meant. Because of the opportunities that Augustana provides, I have been able to work in a museum on campus, in the archives of Augustana’s Special Collections and as an intern at a museum in London.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My professors have gone above and beyond to make sure I have had opportunities to succeed and grow. The religion and history faculty are some of the best on campus. Dan Morris helped me to realize my love for religious ethics and their relation to American politics. I recommend anyone who still needs a CT class to take his American Christianities class. Brian Leech helped me to get all of the job experience that I could ever dream of in museums and other opportunities.
A peak experience?
Working in the London Canal Museum through Augustana’s study abroad program was definitely a peak experience for me. I experienced a new culture while working in the field that I love. I would not have been able to do this without Augustana and Augie Choice.
What surprised you?
I learned I am able to be academic about issues and still take a stand. I always was worried that being able to see both sides of an argument made you exempt from making claims about it.
How did you use Augie Choice?
I used Augie Choice for study abroad. During the summer before my senior year, I took classes on European politics while working at an internship for the London Canal Museum.
What will you miss the most?
The people. I have made so many connections during my time here at Augustana. The faculty and the students are what make the college experience at Augustana worthwhile.
Advice for Class of 2021?
Do stuff. Attending club and group events on campus is how I made most of my friends. Some of my fondest memories at Augustana involve playing board games in the Erickson basement until 4 in the morning on a Thursday night for Gaming Club.
“Atticus has gotten a lot out of his four years at Augustana—including two majors, an internship in London, and work experience in museums and archives—but he has also given back a lot, by making every class he attends better. He models hard work and thoughtful engagement; he does research even when it’s not required; and he’s willing to be playful with class material, as he showed when he led our Senior Inquiry students in an attempt to summarize our readings in often-ridiculous cartoons.”