Rachel Byrne
Graduation year: 2026
High school: Metea Valley High School
Hometown: Aurora, Ill.
Major: Communication sciences and disorders
Minor: Disability studies
Activities: Sigma Pi Delta sorority, Augustana Student Speech and Hearing Association (ASSHA), OSL Leadership Academy Participate, Greek Council
Internship: Student clinician at Augustana's Roseman Center for Speech, Language and Hearing
Post-grad plans: Attend Illinois State University to pursue a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
Why Augustana?
I came to Augustana for its exceptional CSD program, and it has exceeded every expectation. In just four years, I’ve gained invaluable knowledge and hands-on experience as a student clinician. Augustana opens doors you didn’t know existed and empowers you to become who you aspire to be, while surrounding you with people who challenge and support you to grow into your best self.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
I am so much further than I ever imagined.I entered this school and program as a completely different person than the one I am now. Along the way, I’ve grown into leadership roles, discovered a genuine drive to make a positive impact, and found both a sense of purpose and a voice I’m confident using. If my freshman-year self could see me today, she would be in awe, not just of what I’ve accomplished, but of who I’ve become.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
First and foremost, my family has shaped who I am today. They’ve pushed me to be my best, supported me endlessly and encouraged me to reach my full potential. I am incredibly blessed to have them.
I also owe so much to the Augustana CSD faculty, especially Mrs. Aumuller, whose support as a clinical supervisor has meant so much to me, along with all of my clinical supervisors for helping me grow as a clinician. I am especially grateful to Dr. Perreau, Mrs. Schaefer and Dr. Webb for their guidance and support throughout my graduate school application process.
Sigma Pi Delta has given me so much, a true home away from home and friendships that will last a lifetime, even becoming my future wedding party. It has helped me grow into a leader and shown me what I am truly capable of.
Thank you Rey for encouraging and empowering my passion for service and helping me make a meaningful impact.
I am also so grateful for everyone else who has played a role in my journey here at Augie!
Peak experience?
Discovering my passion for service. I’ve had the opportunity to raise thousands of dollars for various charities and create meaningful service opportunities across the Quad Cities community.
In the clinic, I have worked with five individuals and grown tremendously as both a student and a future clinician.
I also had the chance to travel and broaden my perspective by attending the ASSHA convention in Washington, D.C., going to Greece and participating in the Disney Leadership program!
What surprised you?
How much you can achieve when you put yourself out there and truly believe in yourself. Once I stepped outside of my comfort zone, I discovered opportunities and confidence I never expected.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice to study in Greece during J-term of my junior year. I had the opportunity to research a monument and present my findings to my peers, while also experiencing the beauty of Greece and its rich history firsthand.
What will you miss the most?
Everything. I am genuinely excited for the next chapter of my story, but I find myself at a loss for words when trying to describe how much I will miss Augustana. I will miss my incredible friends and mentors, the sunsets by Old Main and the beauty of the campus in the fall.
Most of all, I will miss the feeling that if you have an idea or a goal, there is always someone on this campus ready and willing to help you make it happen.
Advice for the Class of 2030?
Take advantage of everything, push yourself to grow and say yes to new opportunities. Use these four years to discover who you are, what drives you and what you want to accomplish. Don’t be afraid to fail; failure is where some of the most important learning happens. Just make sure to try again! :)
"It has been an absolute joy to have had the opportunity to work with Rachel as a student clinician! Her enthusiasm is contagious, and I appreciate how she is always 'thinking on her feet' and coming up with new ideas to better serve her clients. I am confident that Rachel will go on to do great things after graduating from Augustana. Rachel makes me excited about the next generation of speech-language pathologists!"