Iratze Aceves

High school: Monmouth-Roseville High School

Hometown: Monmouth, Ill.

Majors: Psychology, public health, Classics

Activities: Latinx Unidos, HerCampus, Psychology Club, Augustana Concert Band, Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity

Internship: Development intern at The Project of The Quad Cities

Post-grad plans: I aspire to pursue higher education in the future; however, in the interim, I plan to maintain a fulfilling, steady role that allows me to contribute to helping others.

Why Augustana?

I applied to Augustana after my friend Santiago Miranda encouraged me, especially when I felt uncertain about my college application process. During high school, as part of TRIO UBMS, I toured several schools. One piece of advice stood out: "Your institution should feel like home." 

When I toured Augustana, I immediately connected with the environment. My intuition told me this was where I belonged. I looked at my father, and in that moment, I realized we were both on the same page.

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

I often reflect on my time at Augustana, and I truly believe I’m not the same person who first walked through its doors. In my first semester, I wasn’t sure higher education was right for me. However, I've grown in confidence, ambition and perspective. Now I understand that higher education opens doors to dreams I never imagined.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

Dr. Kirsten Day deserves all the credit for who I am today, and I couldn't be more thankful. She pointed at me one day and said she would make me a Classics major. At the time, I couldn’t believe her and thought I’d be overwhelmed with two other intended majors. But Dr. Day paved the way by being the first advisor who truly believed in me. 

With her guidance, I have received three awards from the Classical Association of the Middle West and South (CAMWS): the Rudolph Masciantonio Diversity Award (’23), the Manson A. Stewart Undergraduate Award (’24), and, most recently, the first runner-up Anthony Fauci Award in STEM and Classics (’25).

Without this authentic connection with an advisor, I truly believe I wouldn’t have grown the way I have during my time at Augustana.

Peak experience?

One of the most memorable moments I had was outside the Erickson Lobby during my sophomore year. For the first time, I felt a true sense of friendship when my friends organized a cookout. They brought snacks, drinks, blankets and instruments, and we gathered together outdoors. I remember that night as if it were yesterday, holding onto that memory dearly, as I never felt more alive and in such good company.

What surprised you?

My biggest surprise has been the care and connection many professors show their students. I grew up in a small town where everyone knew each other, and support for students often depended on their background or family. At Augustana, there are opportunities for everyone, regardless of their background, and that truly stands out to me.

What will you miss the most?

I consider myself a social butterfly, and I will forever miss the OSID [Office of Student Inclusion and Diversity] table and everyone around it. I’ve shared my struggles, tears, laughter and successes there. The spontaneous adventures, meals and company we offered one another were unlike any other. I will always carry the memories we created around that table deep in my heart.

Advice for the Class of 2029?

Life itself is the best teacher. Your time at Augustana will mirror the real world. Your career is a slow and steady journey — don’t rush. Remember, you are shaped by those around you. Choose people who support your goals and help you grow.