Emily Westermeyer
Graduation year: 2018
Majors: Business administration-finance, business administration-management
Minors: Accounting, psychology
Activities: Varsity volleyball, Delta Chi Theta sorority
Internships: Marketing coordinator intern with Newhouse Health Solutions; human resource intern with the Arc of the Quad Cities Area
Post-grad plans: Pursue a career in business finance
Why Augustana?
I chose Augustana after attending UW-Stevens Point my freshman year. I was drawn to Augustana because of the grueling and thriving academics as well as its close-knit community, which were all things that UW-Stevens Point lacked in my eyes. When I first came to visit, I was greeted by various members of the community with welcoming smiles and greetings. These small gestures of kindness assured me that Augustana would become my home away from home.
Are you where you thought you’d be when you first came to campus?
I am surprised at where I am in some ways, but not in others. I came into Augustana very eager to rewrite my college experience because my first year at another school was not what I imagined my college career would be. I did expect to play volleyball and make lasting friendships and memories. But I truly did not expect to join a sorority, end up with such different career goals or become a completely different person than I was three years ago. I have gained confidence, knowledge, new perspective and much more from my time at Augustana.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My parents have been the main driving force that helped me to become who I am today. They have supported me through my highs and lows and that was crucial to my success. Mamata Marmé has been my advisor since orientation. She has helped me pick classes, grow as a businessperson and capitalize on opportunities.
My volleyball coach, Coach Kelly Bethke, also helped me grow into the person I am today by fostering servant leadership, dedication, loyalty and hard work. The entire business department helped me to grow into the intellectual and capable woman that I am today. I would particularly like to thank Professor Jennifer Palar and Professor Melinda Mahon for all that they have done for me.
Additionally, the Delta Chi Theta sorority and my roommates helped me become the woman that I am today. They instilled confidence, sisterhood and a different perspective. I am so thankful for everyone at Augustana who has helped me grow as an adult (shout-out to P).
Peak experience?
My peak experience was going to Colorado with the volleyball team this past fall. I had never been to Colorado, and it was awesome to experience such a different landscape with my teammates. We explored, made great memories and experienced volleyball at a much higher altitude than we are used to. We also ate about 20 pounds of tortilla chips at La Hacienda, which was one of the highlights of our trip. Beyond that, we played against three highly competitive volleyball teams from all over the United States. That trip will be a memory I cherish forever.
What surprised you?
I learned that I am more capable than I think I am and that I should do everything with confidence. The people that I have surrounded myself with at Augustana have supported me in more ways than I thought were possible. They helped me to realize that I need to challenge myself and put forth all of my effort because that is when I will find the greatest success.
How did you use Augie Choice?
I used Augie Choice to fund my living costs when I was interning the summer before my senior year.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss all of the amazing, driven and inspiring people at Augustana. From the faculty to the students, everyone at Augustana has a purpose, and it is contagious.
Advice for the Class of 2022?
Take all the opportunities you are presented to challenge yourself and grow. College will be the best years of your life, and I am certain that is because you get to be whoever you want to be. Cherish your time, it flies by!
“Emily has been a wonderful addition to our volleyball team. She has a positive, fun, and at times goofy demeanor that makes her enjoyable to be around. Emily is a confident student-athlete and through hard work and determination became a top player for the Augustana volleyball team. She was a leader and one of the hardest-working players on the team. I've enjoyed watching her grow into a strong person that is ready to take on any challenge ahead of her!”