Steven Mondloch
Graduation year: 2017
Major: Classics
Minor: Music
Activities: Å·ÖÞ±ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø Choir, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia music fraternity, Collegia Classica, Å·ÖÞ±ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø Chapel Singers, Phi Beta Kappa
Internship: National Hellenic Museum, Chicago
Post-grad plans: Take some time off before pursuing a graduate degree in Classics
Why Å·ÖÞ±ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø?
Å·ÖÞ±ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø offered the highest diversity of programs that I could be part of simultaneously. I was offered scholarship money for music and could participate in the top ensembles while still devoting my studies to what I was truly passionate about.
Are you where you thought you¡¯d be four years ago?
Absolutely not. I came to Å·ÖÞ±ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø hoping to pursue music education. The great thing about a liberal arts college is that it encouraged me to delve into many other things, and because of that I wound up finding a major that I never even knew existed. Although it's not what I expected, Å·ÖÞ±ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø allowed me the room I needed to explore my interests and find my calling.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
Every professor I've had at Å·ÖÞ±ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø has personally inspired me to learn and do more than I thought I was capable of. The friends that I made through ensembles and clubs have also become lifelong attachments that have shaped who I am today. In such a supportive and tightly knit community, it's hard to feel alone at Augie.
A peak experience?
I loved performing in musicals and plays in the theatre department. While it wasn't an area of study for me, I feel that I thrived in shows and learned a huge amount about theatre.
What surprised you?
I didn't realize how much I enjoyed being involved in many things. The community that Å·ÖÞ±ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø fosters encourages participation in tons of different activities, which makes for more well-rounded and multi-talented graduates.
How did you use Augie Choice?
I went on a choir trip to Germany, Denmark and Sweden, which was an amazing time! I got to see Europe with my friends and sing in beautiful chapels every day. It was the experience of a lifetime!
What will you miss the most?
I will miss the community and general well-wishing environment at Å·ÖÞ±ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø. Everyone is willing to help and wants the best for you. Don't be afraid to ask!
Advice for the Class of 2021?
Get involved right away in as much new stuff as you can. If you get a bit overwhelmed, you can always downsize, but you never know where you'll find your calling!
¡°Steven has taken advantage of every opportunity offered and seeks out new ones with eagerness. In addition to remaining active in music, he has tutored beginning Latin and Greek students, organized a Latin reading group, attended academic conferences, and was inducted into Å·ÖÞ±ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø¡¯s chapter of Eta Sigma Phi, the national honor society for students who excel in Classics. I have enjoyed seeing Steven make the most of his time at Å·ÖÞ±ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø, and I look forward to seeing him continue to succeed in graduate school and beyond!¡±