Alannah Golden
Graduation year: 2013
Major: Elementary education
Activities: Ladies of Vital Essence, Spring Forward Learning Center
Post-grad plans: Seeking a teaching position in the Quad Cities.
Why did you choose to attend Augustana?
One of my high school mentors recommended I visit Augustana, and I was heartened by the administration and students I came in contact with while touring the beautiful campus.
Are you where you thought you’d be four years ago?
Not exactly...although I have reached many goals as a beginning teacher, I am more surprised at the kind of person I am today. I value the education I have received at Augustana because it has helped to mold me into a strong, tolerant and contributing member of our community.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
I credit my mother for my small successes. She has demonstrated incredible strength and tenacity. From her, I learned what it means to be resilient and to take life’s hardships in stride.
A peak experience?
My peak experience at Augustana was studying abroad in Ghana this past winter. To have the opportunity to completely immerse oneself in another culture is incredibly rewarding, and I am very fortunate to have had to chance to do so.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I did field research at the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind in St. Augustine, Florida, my sophomore year and presented at a national conference the following year in Denver.
What did you learn about yourself in these past four years that surprised you?
I learned that I am not as shy as I like to think I am. I have learned that the key to receiving all of life’s wonders is to open yourself up. Many of the wonderful opportunities I have been awarded while at Augie, have come from just asking. I would advise incoming students to not let shyness or insecurities keep you from experiencing greatness.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss studying in the education department. Second floor of Evald is such a special place, and I cherish the bonds I have made with both my professors and classmates.
"I think the best word to describe Alannah Golden is: humanitarian. Alannah has given countless hours working for the well-being of others, especially the lives of recent immigrant families. She not only rolls up her own sleeves teaching English and providing after-school enrichment activities, she has been the catalyst behind the involvement of other Augie students getting in these programs. I predict that Alannah will someday earn the "Citizen of the Year" award."