​Micaela Terronez

Majors: History, anthropology

Minor: Religion

Activities: Phi Alpha Theta, Chi Alpha Pi sorority, Augustana Dance Company, Augustana Vikettes

Post-grad plans: I plan to pursue a graduate degree in either library and information studies or cultural resource management.

Why did you choose Augustana?

As a local, I always wanted to attend a big school away from home. However, my older sister insisted that I apply to Augustana. At the end of the day, I realized Augustana was the best fit for me as a student and individual. What sold me was the size of the school. I came from a class of just over 100 students. I knew that a small college like Augustana would give me the individual attention and hands-on experience to obtain my goals.

Are you where you thought you'd be four years ago?

No way! I came to Augustana as a shy freshman with no clue what I wanted to major in. I knew that I loved studying history and culture, but I never imagined I would choose these passions as my majors. I had the impression that I could only be a teacher with these majors. However, I have realized the endless possibilities of my interdisciplinary majors because of the faculty and staff at Augustana.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

As a first-generation college student, my parents encouraged me to obtain my education to accomplish what neither they nor my grandparents did. It was never a choice to attend college. My education was an absolute must — and for that, I am so thankful. Besides my family, everyone in the Augustana community has helped me in some way to become the student and individual that I am today. I am especially grateful to the entire history, anthropology and religion departments. I cannot begin to thank these professors for their guidance, amazing lectures, and encouragement. I also want to thank my classmates, sorority, supervisors, and friends. This close-knit Augie community has inspired me to be a better version of myself, and it is the reason why I have truly enjoyed these last four years.

A peak experience?

A peak experience of my academic career was being awarded a summer research grant from Augustana. As a part of an initiative to better preserve the local Mexican-American community in the Quad Cities, I researched St. Mary's Catholic Church in Moline, Ill., and the prominent Mexican-American community that resides nearby in the Floreciente District. Without the advice of Augustana faculty, discussions with my peers, and the support of my family, I would not have been as prepared to do such intensive research. It is with this continued support that I also find myself ready to take on the "real world" and confident that my skills as a researcher will aid me in the future.

What did you learn about yourself in these past four years that surprised you?

I am surprised at how much I love being a student. My classes led me to challenge my views and question the world around me. My liberal arts education has given me this strong intellectual foundation, while also leading me to become a lifelong learner in my fields of study.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I will be using my Augie Choice to study abroad in Rome, Italy! I will be eating pizza and gelato for days as I learn about the Italian culture with Dr. Dan Lee of the religion department.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss the daily conversations and laughter I have shared with my sorority sisters, fellow classmates and best friends at Augustana.

Advice for the Class of 2019?

Don't hesitate to immerse yourself in something you are interested in — or perhaps love! So, apply for that study abroad program even though you have never been on a plane, join an intramural sport you have no experience in, and take an interesting class in a subject other than your major. Augustana offers the environment where you can explore all of your interests.