Ella DePasquale

High school: Wheaton Warrenville South High School

Hometown: Warrenville, Ill.

Major: Art education

Activities: Sigma Pi Delta sorority

Post-grad plans: Find an elementary art teaching job in the suburbs of Chicago!

Why Augustana?

When I first visited Augustana, I realized it was the college for me. In fact, it ended up being the only college I visited because of how confident I felt that it was the perfect fit for me. I loved how small and beautiful the campus was. Whenever I brought up Augustana to anyone, they only had good things to say, and I knew that was a good sign.

Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?

I am definitely not where I thought I would be! I came with the intention of majoring in psychology, and now I am pursuing a career as an art educator! I am extremely glad that I took the leap of changing my path because I am so happy with the education program I learned from and the future I have empowering the minds of young artists.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

There are a lot of people who helped me get where I am now. First off, my mom and dad. Without them, I wouldn't have been able to go to college and pursue an education. They have given me the courage and strength to push through the toughest of times even when it didn't feel possible. Without their support, I wouldn't be where I am. For their support, love and motivation, I am forever grateful. 

I would also like to recognize my sister, Sophia, who actually goes to Augie now, too! She has always been my rock and also supported me during difficult times in my college career. 

As for faculty here at Augustana, I would love to thank the entire education department as well as my advisor Katie Hanson. They have all shown me what it means to be an effective teacher, and with their wisdom I am excited to grow as a teacher myself. 

I would also love to thank Megan Quinn for being a joyful mentor during my time as an art student. 

The last people that I think helped me get where I am are my roommates Emma Vassallo and Mary Sabo. I met them my freshman year and will forever cherish the instant connection and bond the three of us had. We have been friends all of college and roommates for two years. As roommates, we hold each other accountable with our academics, but know that there will always be a kind shoulder to lean on. 

Peak experience?

This is so hard because there were lots of great experiences, but one of my favorites was when my phrig won first place at Homecoming! A phrig is a big sheet that is usually painted for large events like Rush or Homecoming. 

I was a junior, and my parents were here to watch my Sing performance, a fun competition during Homecoming Week. They were announcing the phrig winners, and I got first place! It was so magical my mom even started crying! This moment is something I will never forget.

What surprised you?

What surprised me the most was how small the campus really is. When you visit, you don't know anyone in the student community and just think the campus is small because everyone says it is, but the longer you here, the more people you get to know and it feels like you know EVERYONE. The community is something I will miss when I graduate.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice for study abroad. I studied In Italy for four weeks this past summer! The company I did my study abroad through was CEA CAPA, and I took one class "Women, Art and Culture in Italy." I loved the course, and the whole experience is something I am so glad I decided to do.

What will you miss the most?

I mentioned earlier that my sister now goes to Augie too, so I will definitely miss living down the street from her and seeing her all the time. She also joined the same sorority as me, Sigma Pi Delta, so I am trying to soak in all the time we have left together! 

Speaking of Sigma Pi Delta, I will miss all of the people I have gotten so close with and the responsibilities I held within the group. 

Lastly, I will miss all of my friends. I hope we can visit one another during Homecoming as alumni!

Advice for the Class of 2029?

HAVE FUN because your college experience will go by in a blink of an eye, and they aren't kidding when they say time flies when you're having fun! Make the most of your time here and do everything the school has to offer.