Chaney Tambling
Graduation year: 2014
Majors: Biology-pre-veterinary medicine, Spanish for professional use
Activities: Varsity basketball, varsity softball, Student Athlete Advisory Committee, Sigma Pi Delta sorority, Tri-Beta Honor Society, Mortar Board Honor Society
Post-grad plans: I will be attending the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana’s chool of Veterinary Medicine to pursue a DVM.
Why did you choose to attend Augustana?
I chose Augustana because of its pre-vet program, but it also gave me the opportunity to play both basketball and softball at the varsity level while I got my education.
Are you where you thought you’d be four years ago?
I’m in the place I wanted to be at this point in time: ready to head to vet school and pursue my dreams of becoming a vet, but I’ve also learned so much more about myself and life than I ever planned or thought I could while at college.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My parents and family played a huge role in helping me get to where I am now. They've been the best support system I could have ever dreamed of having, and they’ve allowed me to concentrate on my studies and athletics while in college. My coaches and friends have also played a huge role in who I am now and how I’ve gotten here. My coaches have pushed me to be the absolute best that I can at whatever I do, and my friends have contributed to the endless amount of support that I’ve needed through these last four years.
A peak experience?
Taking a trip abroad to Brazil with my basketball team was one of the biggest highlights of my college career. I was lucky enough to go with a group of girls that I love and was able to participate in such amazing adventures while we were there. It is something that I will remember for the rest of my life, and it’s something that not many people get a chance to do..
What did you learn about yourself in these past four years that surprised you?
I’ve learned that the support of my friends and family are going to get me through a lot of things in life. I’ve always been very independent and loved doing things on my own. At college I’ve had the chance to open up to people and allow them to help me and guide me through this journey. I wouldn’t be who I am without that, and I’m so appreciative of the opportunity to explore my dreams.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice take my trip to Brazil with the women’s basketball team.
What will you miss the most?
The people. Classes and education are things that will stick with me for years, and I’m very grateful to have been given the opportunity to be able to receive such a wonderful education, but the people that I’ve met, participated in athletics with, had classes with, been taught by, etc. — they are what I will miss most about Augustana. I’ve met my best friends while I’ve been here, and I’ve created such great relationships with my teammates, coaches and professors that Augustana really became a home away from home these last four years.
Advice for the Class of 2018?
Don’t be afraid to be goofy or silly and don’t let any one thing define you. Your time here will be some of the best years of your life and will give you some of the most important people in your life. Enjoy the ride and always be yourself.
"Working with Chaney truly has been a pleasure. She exudes enthusiasm for life, which is contagious! Chaney is one of the most self-motivated, personable and well-rounded college students I have had the opportunity to mentor and advise. Her broad liberal arts education will allow her to develop the advanced connections required to excel in veterinary medicine school and run an effective practice."