Sofia Rankin
Graduation year: 2025
High school: Joliet West High School
Hometown: Joliet, Ill.
Major: Elementary education
Minor: Psychology
Activities: Chi Alpha Pi sorority, Epsilon Sigma Alpha service sorority
Internship: Student teaching in first grade at Earl Hanson Elementary School, Rock Island
Post-grad plans: Teaching at an elementary school in the Chicago suburbs
Why Augustana?
I chose Augustana because of the education department's strong reputation. I knew that acquiring my teaching degree at Augustana would be the best option to help me grow as a future educator and individual.
Once I toured the campus, I fell in love with its beauty and community. I was more than just a number on a campus — I felt that I could truly make a difference and create strong connections with other students and professors.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
In many ways I followed the path that I planned before coming to campus, but I had an incredible journey along the way. I joined a sorority my freshman year — something I never thought I'd do — but it completely changed my college experience for the better.
I was also able to go on a study abroad program that influenced my mindset in many ways. It was one of the most rewarding experiences that I never knew was possible for me before coming to Augie.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
Many of my education professors have been crucial to where I have landed as a person and educator. Dr. Scarlett and Dr. Egan have been very influential for me as they always pushed me to do my best in the classroom and truly helped me deepen my understanding of what it means to be a teacher. They were also great tour guides in Jamaica!
Dr. Hinzman-Ferris is a ray of sunshine that led me to care deeply about the importance of reading in the classroom, and was always a person I could trust and go to with anything. Professor Shepherd was also a guiding light during my student teaching, and one of the most kindhearted professors on campus.
To my friends who I knew before or have come to know along the way, you have helped me better myself in many ways and have created memories and stories that I know we will continue to share many years down the road.
And finally my family, who always knew Augustana was the right choice for me, and I would not be who or where I am today without their guidance, love and support. I hope to continue to make them proud in my future endeavors.
Peak experience?
The connections and friends I made through my sorority and the education department have been the highlight of my time at Augustana.
Finding amazing groups of people who I can relate to on so many levels has helped me branch out as a person and find people who have bettered me as an individual and teacher. The memories created with those people are ones I will cherish for the rest of my life.
What surprised you?
I was surprised by how at home I felt at Augie while being two hours from my real hometown. This was due to how kind and connected Augie's students and professors are, as people treat each other with kindness and have a real desire to connect. The professors I had were especially kind and helpful, which was supported by a small classroom size.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice to study abroad in Jamaica through the education department. We spent three weeks on the island in January. We learned about its rich culture and history, and observed classrooms to see how schools differ in another country.
What will you miss the most?
The people I have come to know and love at Augie. I will miss walks through the Slough and study sessions at the Brew, and even the mundane tasks that turned into hilarious moments and memories because of the people I was surrounded with.
Advice for the Class of 2029?
Listen to your own heart and mind: choose the people that you feel like yourself with, take the classes that truly interest you, join the clubs that you want to be a part of, and have fun!
These four years truly go by in the blink of an eye, so try and enjoy your time on campus while you can.
"It has been such a pleasure to work with Sofia! Her enthusiasm for learning is contagious. Her students can't help but have fun. Beyond her ability to engage her students, what truly sets Sofia apart is her character. She sees her students as individuals with unique backgrounds and experiences, and she is committed to helping them succeed. She brings liberal-arts ideals to the K-12 classroom, and I am so happy that countless children will benefit from her compassion and curiosity!"