More Than I Imagined

“I have come to value the notion that everything is connected and how we can see so many different disciplines intersecting with one another.”

“I came to Augustana with an ambition to learn about myself and grow as an individual, but I'm leaving with a vocation to help serve others and make a valuable impact on my community.”

“Dr. Heidi Storl taught me that the 'useless' disciplines (like philosophy) are the most useful in practical — not just abstract — situations.”

“It’s been incredible being at a college where I can double major in two completely different fields, and then also be able to be in top choirs and the lead in the musical.”

“Take your time at Augustana to do what you love. If you love a sport, find a way to play that sport. If you love business, join a business club. I would definitely suggest getting involved.”

“My professors have truly helped me realize that I am a biologist at heart. Without all of their help and advice, I would not have the confidence I do today about my decision to take a gap year and pursue biology.”

“Learn to think critically and teach someone else how to; you’ll change their perspective, and they’ll change yours.”

“I know if I had a question, concern or wonderment that I could go to any one of the professors within my department, and they would put down whatever they were doing in order to help me, calm me or answer any of my questions.”

“I did not expect to become emotionally attached to Augustana, to find some of my best friends and to be as involved as I became.”

“Be spontaneous—you have no idea where the next adventure(s) will take you!”

“Pursue what makes your heart sing and your soul smile. When you are unapologetic for the things that make you feel at peace, the rest of the world falls into place.”

“Don’t miss out on the opportunities to grow as a person. Build deep relationships. Get out of your comfort zone. Study abroad. Find your passion.”

“My one piece of advice is ‘Do it.' There are so many opportunities here, and too much time is wasted wondering whether to give it a try.”

“Realizing that I wanted to become a teacher was a great surprise to me. I had never thought about it until sophomore year, but I now realize it's one of the best decisions I've ever made.”

“Four years ago, I had no intention of being a nurse but I am now very excited to start this next chapter.”

“I never expected to get to know professors so well, and it has made a huge difference in my college career.”

“Don't say ‘no’ to the opportunities that seem outside your comfort zone. These are the things that will stay with you after you leave your Augie home.”

“I never would have guessed I would be graduating with two majors and a minor, especially in fields I never really saw myself in. These past four years have allowed me to find my passion, and that is such a great feeling.”

“I used to be a shy and skeptical person, but now I have been able to make and maintain multiple relationships with those I never imagined I would have four years ago.”

“My professors have all been amazing mentors and helped me grow in the way I think about the world while also helping me recognize the capabilities I didn’t realize I had.”

“My Augie experience definitely would not have been the same without CORE.”

“One of the biggest things that I have learned is that I am very independent. Augustana has helped me to realize this by living off of campus and through studying abroad.”

“I will miss the close family aspect of Augustana, whether it is from faculty or classmates. There are also so many places to study or hang out with friends on campus.”

“I am surprised that I feel a sense of sadness when I think of graduating, but Augie has really become a home away from home.”