Tyler Leslie
Graduation year: 2026
High school: Metea Valley High School
Hometown: Aurora, Ill.
Major: Computer science
Activities: Men's varsity water polo, men's varsity swimming. (All-American), Rho Nu Delta fraternity
Internship: Software developer intern at Nokia
Post-grad plans: I will attend Illinois State University for my master's in information technology.
Why Augustana?
When I was looking at colleges, I was looking for a place where I could continue my athletic career, while working towards a degree in the field of my choosing. Augustana fit both of those requirements and had the resources I was looking for to succeed. After meeting with the faculty and coaches on my visits, I knew that Augustana was the place for me.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
I am a lot further. The experiences I have had here have shaped me into the person I want to be and set me up for success in the future.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
There are so many different people who have helped me get to where I am.
In the computer science department, the entire staff has taught me the skills I need to succeed in the future. By providing me with a balanced education and stressing the importance of the work we do, they have instilled in me the ability to be a contributing member of the professional world.
Athletically, both my water polo and swimming coaching staff have given me the ability to grow myself, as well as take up a leadership role to help grow my teammates as well. By growing my leadership skills, I will be more comfortable taking up leadership roles in the future.
Peak experience?
My peak experience happened during the 2025 swim season, where I qualified for NCAAs and became the first men's swimmer to become an All-American in nearly 40 years. It was substantial to me because it was something I had always dreamed of doing, and to represent the school at the highest level meant the world to me. I couldn't have done it without my amazing coaches and teammates who pushed me every day.
What surprised you?
What surprised me was how much I enjoyed going to school in college. In high school, it was a chore to get up and sit through classes. In college, it is significantly different because I am learning stuff that is crucial to my professional development.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice for my Internship with Nokia during the summer of 2025. I was working in their office in Naperville, Ill., and I used my Augie Choice for work attire, transportation costs, lunches and other work-related costs.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss the connections I have made throughout my time here. Being involved in two sports and a fraternity, I have made some amazing friends and brothers that I know I will be able to count on in the future. Augustana has provided me with so many opportunities to meet new people, and by taking those opportunities, I have made friends for life.
Advice for the Class of 2030?
My advice for the Class of 2030 is to be yourself. College is a melting pot of different perspectives and experiences, and the best thing you can do is contribute your unique perspective and experience. Learn and grow with the people around you; you never know what will be crucial for your future.
"Balancing demanding swim commitments with rigorous coursework, Tyler demonstrates how discipline in athletics carries into academic and professional success. I had the pleasure of teaching Tyler in Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence, where he quickly stood out as bright, engaged and intellectually curious. A motivated self-starter who collaborates well, Tyler is exactly the kind of driven, capable individual employers seek. We were fortunate to have him in our community."