A Day in the Life
A Day in the Life shares stories from faculty, students, and APEP Student Assistants. These stories aim to give insight into APEP: how it works, and how it impacts participants.
TY Stone
Incarceration can often feel like a dead-end. However, for me, it became a catalyst for transformation and a pathway to discovering my true academic and career ambitions. While serving my time, I was accepted into the Augustana Prison Education Program (APEP). APEP offered me a remarkable opportunity, the chance to earn an accredited four-year bachelor’s degree in communication while I was still in custody. The effects of participating in APEP were nothing short of life changing. It opened my eyes to the possibilities higher education could offer, helping me reshape my perceptions of what a career could mean for me. APEP taught me that communication is not just about exchanging information; it is a powerful tool that can be used to uplift others and create social change.
After I left prison, I enrolled on campus in Spring semester 2024 to continue my education. That first summer, I had the enormous privilege of interning for State Representative Gregg Johnson. My internship focused on the policy-making process, allowing me to observe firsthand how laws are crafted and rolled out across the state. I was involved in a variety of tasks, from creating newsletters to coordinating with government agencies, non-profits, and businesses to address the concerns of constituents who sought our help, whether through phone calls, emails, or in-person visits. Participating in tours of local resources, like those provided by Project Now for housing, was truly eye-opening. The experience solidified my interest in political engagement, emphasizing how crucial effective communication is in shaping public policy. It was during this time that I embraced my aspiration to become a lobbyist. I was honored to accept the chair position on Representative Johnson's justice committee, a role that I hold with immense pride.
In addition to my work with Representative Johnson, I had the opportunity to intern at the EDGE Center at Augustana College. EDGE stands for Entrepreneurial Development through Guided Experiences, and it has been an enlightening journey for me. During this internship, I learned the essentials of coding in HTML, JavaScript, and CSS. It not only broadened my understanding of technology but also opened up a realm of innovation that I had never considered before. In fact, I’m currently working on building my very own social networking app, which I look forward to pitching in an upcoming competition. My mentors at the EDGE Center, Doug and Andy, have been instrumental in my growth. They provided me with foundational knowledge in graphic design and guided me through the coding process, igniting my confidence in tackling technology.
In conclusion, APEP has had a profound impact on my academic and career goals. It has driven me to pursue opportunities that resonate with my passion for communication, advocacy, and technology. As I continue my journey at Augustana College, I look forward to the future and the possibilities that lie ahead. With the skills I am gaining and the supportive community surrounding me, I am eager to make a meaningful contribution to my community and beyond.