Jesus Murillo

High school: Waukegan High School

Hometown: Waukegan, Ill.

Majors: Biology, public health

Activities: Office of Student Inclusion & Diversity (OSID) student ambassador, Men's Multicultural Association, WAUG.fm, soccer and basketball intramurals, Latinx Unidos

Internship: GiGi's Playhouse

Post-grad plans: Join the workforce in the Chicagoland area.

Why Augustana?

One of the reasons I chose Augustana was because of the smaller class sizes and the larger campus. It gave me the chance to build meaningful, personal connections with the people around me — professors, classmates and faculty members. I also wanted to step outside of my comfort zone and explore a new environment, without being too far from my family.

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

I don’t think so — and I actually think that’s a good thing. When I came to Augie, I was pretty set on majoring in pre-med and becoming a great doctor. But after taking a few classes, I realized it wasn’t truly what I wanted to do. Everything that’s happened since then has helped me grow and see the world in a completely different way from when I first stepped onto campus.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

My family has been an incredible source of support throughout my experience here. I honestly can’t express how much it’s meant to have them there, just listening when I needed to talk. They’ve definitely helped me see things from a different perspective and reminded me to keep going, even when things got tough.

I owe them everything, especially my parents, who arrived from Guanajuato, Mexico, with nothing but a deep determination to provide a better life for their children.

Since arriving in the United States, my parents have worked tirelessly every single day to support my siblings and me, ensuring that we never have to worry about having food on the table or a roof over our heads. They’ve dedicated themselves to giving us the chance to experience the same opportunities that others enjoy, never allowing us to settle for anything less.

Thank you for everything! Primeramente Dios

Peak experience?

One experience that stands out the most is working as a student ambassador for OSID, and I would say that it was the most fun I've had on campus. Through this role, I had the opportunity to connect with so many amazing people, help plan meaningful events, and contribute to creating a fun experience for everyone on campus.

This office has given me so much, and I have no doubt it will keep supporting and inspiring others here at Augie!

What surprised you?

I'm surprised by everything I've experienced over the past couple of years. I never would have imagined making such a great group of friends, getting involved on campus, attending so many events, and even having my own radio show. It's been an incredible experience, and I'm thankful for it.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice to help fund my summer internship experience at GiGi's Playhouse.

What will you miss the most?

I'm going to miss all of the friends that I've made here and being able to see them every day! I'm going to miss the late-night adventures to Davenport for food and playing our annual season of soccer for IM league. I will miss being here in the Quad Cities.

Advice for the Class of 2029?

Please take care of yourself! Understand that not everything will always go the way you want, but trust that things will get better, and I promise, you will too. Trust the process, and most importantly, trust yourself.