Christine Harb
Graduation year: 2015
Major: Biology-pre-medicine
Minor: Biochemistry
Activities: Augustana Choir, Relay For Life, Rho Nu Delta fraternity (Roundel Rose), Office of Multicultural Student Life, Augustana Community Health Outreach Organization (ACHOO), Joining Education Through Service (JETS)
Post-grad plans: Pursue a degree in medicine and public health
Why did you choose to attend Augustana?
I came to Augustana because they gave me a theatre scholarship, among others, and I wanted to double major in theatre and history.
Are you where you thought you'd be four years ago?
Not at all! I thought I would be more invested in the arts and would pursue a career of acting, but I changed my mind by the end of freshman year.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My mom. When I first came to Augustana, I was in the Logos Honors Program and was not accustomed to the workload. I was so overwhelmed that I thought I wasn't going to make it through the term, let alone through the year or even graduation. I asked her if I could switch majors since I was unofficially in the pre-medicine program or drop out, and she said, ‘No. You are too smart to drop out. Keep going. You can do it! I believe in you.' In retrospect, after completing a double major and a minor and improving my grades over the past two years, I don't know where I would be if she hadn't said those words.
A peak experience?
The peak of my Augustana experience was my junior year when I began putting myself out of my comfort zone and involving myself in more activities. I became involved in Greek life, ACHOO and JETS, and put more effort into the activities I was already in, such as the Augustana Choir and Relay For Life. Everything I did was much more fulfilling, and pushing myself out of my comfort zone gave me numerous opportunities to take leadership positions and help me make friends I will never forget.
What did you learn about yourself in these past four years that surprised you?
I learned that I can do anything I want. At first, I was convinced that I wasn't as smart as other students, but I just didn't know how to learn. Once I mastered studying, I started getting the grades I wanted. I was more focused and efficient, and this has taught me never to limit myself by saying I can't improve. Because I can, and I proved it. Anyone can once they understand how they learn best.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used Augie Choice to go to Nicaragua with ACHOO and JETS. We set up small clinics around the country and provided health care with the supervision of Nicaraguan doctors. I also went to Guatemala with the psychology department to observe and learn about children in developing countries. I will be touring Denmark, Sweden and Germany after graduation with the Augustana Choir. It's quite easy to travel through Augustana.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss the small classes at Augustana. I enjoyed staying after class to chat with my teachers, and I'm not sure if I will ever get that experience again. I will also miss the Augustana Choir because it shaped my college career and made it very fulfilling. I will always remember to ‘strive for excellence,' as our conductor always says, because excellence will lead to success, not perfection. I will also miss my brothers and sisters in Greek life for the amazing opportunities and unforgettable memories they gave me.
Advice for the Class of 2019?
Learn how to learn, and don't get comfortable.
"Passionate and fearless are two words I would use to describe Christine. She exudes an extraordinary level of determination and passion that is the foundation of her accomplishments. Her experiences in the classroom, volunteering for Relay for Life, and travel abroad have helped shape and strengthen her sense of purpose for her calling. I can't wait to see what she will accomplish next."