Alumni in 5
Abigail Austin '26
1. Tell us about your journey since graduation.
After graduation, I spent the summer working with Grand
Rapids Public Schools' summer program and saving up money
for my move abroad! I was awarded the Rotary Global Scholarship to
study at Queen's University Belfast. I will complete my
Master's in Conflict Transformation and Social
Justice in Northern Ireland during the 2026–2027 academic
year. I am so excited to help build mutual understanding and
challenge polarization through my studies and advocacy work.
2. Share a favorite Grand Valley memory.
One of my favorite memories at Grand Valley was in my final year,
actually! As a non-traditional, adult student, I drove onto campus for
my classes and promptly left to make it to work. I didn't make
connections with classmates easily during lectures or class times, but
over the years, after meeting people in several classes and reaching
out again when we would have another class together, my friendships
really grew and it was great to finish my studies with a familiar
cohort. If I could do it again, I would make sure to make time for 1-2
extracurriculars in order to build more connections on campus.
3. What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
It's not so much advice as a wish: "May your choices reflect
your hopes, not your fears." I lived much of my life basing
everything around protecting myself from what I was afraid of. I am
finally entering a season where I feel brave enough to orient myself
around hope instead. It can be scary, but it's so worth it.
4. List three words you would use to describe your Grand
Valley experience.
Surprising, investment, and connection.
5. What difference would you like to make in the world?
I am committed to building unity, community, and mutual
understanding through education and access to
information. I would like to help others navigate our complex world
with a little more compassion, confidence, and care for our fellow humans.
May 2026
Interest Area(s)
Psychology, Philosophy
Share this spotlight
Return to the listing of alumni in 5.