Jersey Merrick

High school: Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences

Hometown: Chicago

Majors: Business administration-management; business administration-marketing

Minor: Accounting and entrepreneurship

Activities: Varsity women's water polo, Chi Omega Gamma sorority

Internships: Regional Media with Planet 93.9; Social Indoor, a national indoor network of digital and print screens

Post-grad plans: Work as a sales account executive at Regional Media here in the Quad Cities

Why Augustana?

I originally chose Augustana so I could continue playing water polo and stay close to home. However, after visiting campus, I fell in love with the smaller environment. Hearing about the small class sizes and how much professors care about their students really drew me in. I also toured in the fall, and the campus was incredibly beautiful.

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

Honestly, yes and no. Academically, I’m about where I expected to be. Career-wise, though, things turned out differently. When I started as a freshman, I knew I wanted to do something in business, but I had no idea what exactly. I never expected to land such a great sales internship with such an amazing company. 

Athletically, I’m also not where I originally thought I would be, but in a good way. I’ve grown a lot both as an athlete and as a leader on the team.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

There are so many people who helped me get to where I am today: God, my family, teammates, friends, coaches and professors. Throughout my four years at Augustana, they have all played a role in helping me grow and change. 

Thank you, Coach Pryor, for taking a chance on me four years ago. Thank you to my teammates for being my family away from home, and to my professors for their understanding when I missed class to travel for water polo. 

Lastly, thank you to my parents for always being my biggest supporters no matter what.

Peak experience?

Some of my peak experiences were hosting water polo nationals in 2023 and 2025 and then winning and hosting our conference championship in 2025 at our home pool. Another meaningful part of my experience has been playing water polo alongside a group of girls who eventually became like a family to me.

What surprised you?

I was surprised that I was able to double major and have two minors while still being on track to graduate early. However, I chose to stay all four years so I could continue playing water polo. I was also surprised by how many activities and opportunities there are to get involved on campus.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice to help cover my housing and gas expenses, as well as to support my summer internship with Regional Media.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss being able to spend so much time talking and being with my friends and teammates. I will also miss playing water polo, the strong bonds and friendships that were created through the sport, and traveling to so many new states for tournaments.

Advice for the Class of 2030?

Enjoy every moment because college truly goes by in the blink of an eye. Try new things, step outside your comfort zone and go to as many campus events as you can. Also, take advantage of CORE. I waited until my senior year and wish I had gone sooner.