Jordyn Van Santen

High school: Fenwick High School

Hometown: Forest Park, Ill.

Majors: Environmental studies; film

Activities: Varsity track & field, Film Club, Phi Beta Kappa

Internship: Production/newsroom intern at WHBF-TV (summer 2025)

Post-grad plans: I will be working in a communications role at the Aldo Leopold Foundation, a non-profit focused on environmental conservation!

Why Augustana?

I chose Augustana based on a feeling — Augustana just felt right. The community, academics and opportunities I was met with once I started school made me so glad I trusted that feeling!

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

Not exactly! Coming into college, I knew I had a passion for both filmmaking and environmental stewardship, but I didn't know if majoring in both made sense. With guidance from some amazing professors, I found that the creative storytelling associated with film is incredibly important in promoting environmental work and empowering communities towards change. 

Augustana showed me that there is a place for all of my interests and helped me find a career path that blends them together.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

I give a lot of credit to my professors, especially Dr. Sarah Lashley, my environmental studies advisor. Dr. Lashley helped me discover my passion for environmental justice and community engagement, and she has been supportive through every step of learning and research.

I also have to give a huge shoutout to my track & field coach, Isaac Smith, and all of the coaches and teammates who have been there for me over the years. My freshman year, I (very hesitantly) reached out to Isaac to see if the track team would consider taking a walk-on. 

Four years later, I cannot imagine my college experience without the team. My teammates and coaches have helped me to develop into not only a stronger athlete, but also a better friend and leader.

Finally, I wouldn't be where I am now without the friends I have made here, friends from home and my family!

Peak experience?

One of my favorite experiences at Augie was completing my Senior Inquiry for environmental studies this past fall. Doing hands-on field work and analysis in Davenport with students who share a similar passion was super impactful.

Winning the 4x400 relay at our conference track meet with three of my closest teammates last year was also a top experience. I will never forget the feeling of so much hard work paying off, and the joy of celebrating with teammates who have become like family.

What surprised you?

How quickly I adjusted to being at Augustana. I was pretty shy throughout high school, so moving away from the comfort of home was scary. I had to push myself a little bit to get involved around campus, but once I did, I became a lot more confident in myself and quickly found comfort in my new routine.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I studied abroad for two weeks in Northern Sweden, learning about geography, culture and the policies impacting the Arctic region! This trip was an incredible way to see so many of the concepts I had learned about in the classroom in the real world.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss being within just a few minutes of my best friends at all times. The community here is truly irreplaceable.

Advice for the Class of 2030?

Learn to trust yourself and what you have to offer! As someone who almost didn't double major due to self doubt, I am so glad that I ultimately believed in myself enough to pursue both interests. Follow your passions wherever they may take you, and don't be afraid to ask for guidance along the way.