Megan DeRoeck
Graduation year: 2018
Major: Secondary education (English)
Activities: Camp Kesem, Dance Marathon, Epsilon Sigma Alpha (service), Sigma Pi Delta sorority
Internship: Student teacher at Pleasant Valley High School in Bettendorf, Iowa
Post-grad plans: Teach language arts or English at a middle or high school
Why Augustana?
I loved the small teacher-to-student ratio, and I felt like the professors cared about their students’ overall well-being. I really wanted to go to a school that had a strong sense of community, and it is clear that Augustana represents this.
Are you where you thought you’d be when you first came to campus?
No. When I first came to campus, I was undecided with my major and had no idea what organizations I wanted to be a part of. I was nervous about meeting new people and just adjusting to the college lifestyle. However, now I am almost done with my major and have had many leadership positions in non-profit and service organizations. I love working with other students to better and serve the lives of those in need. I have made many friends and connections through all of my activities and wouldn’t take back any of my experiences at Augie.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My professors helped by guiding me through my education classes and acting as mentors and role models who I could go to if I ever needed advice or just felt overwhelmed. My friends helped me by providing encouragement and support throughout my time at Augie. From going to Bingo, watching movies, studying in the fishbowl, etc., my friends have always been there for me.
Peak experience?
A peak experience was being a co-director for Augustana’s 2017 Dance Marathon. After taking on many leadership roles at Augie, I knew that I wanted to end my senior year by being in charge of Dance Marathon. With the help of my co-director, we spent a year ensuring that Dance Marathon would be a fun and successful event. We raised more than $12,700 for the Children’s Hospital in Iowa.
What surprised you?
I learned that I am a very resilient person. No matter what is going on in my personal life, I stay focused on my academics and leadership roles and work hard to ensure that I achieve my goals. When someone gives me any indication of doubt, I just push that much harder to reach and surpass goals.
How did you use Augie Choice?
I used Augie Choice to study abroad in Italy. I visited Rome, Naples, Florence, Venice, Capri and the Tuscany region on my 18-day trip. Traveling to Italy was a surreal experience, and I am so thankful that I was able to use Augie Choice to help me travel out of the country and immerse myself in a new culture.
What will you miss the most?
What I will miss the most are all the people at Augie. Everywhere I walk on campus, there is always someone to say hi to or have a conversation with. Augustana students truly care about each other and support all the different organizations, clubs, sports and activities we are a part of. Augie is a supportive and encouraging community, and I can’t believe that my time in such a positive environment is coming to an end.
Advice for the Class of 2022?
Challenge yourself. Augustana provides students with so many opportunities to grow both academically and personally. Life is too short to not experience new things, meet a variety of people and have a lot of fun in the process!
“I have enjoyed being Megan’s advisor, watching her grow more confident in her academic pursuits and extra-curricular leadership roles each year. She is a hard-working person, deeply committed to doing her best all of the time. I am very glad that she switched her original major of ‘undecided’ to English education. She will be an excellent teacher and role model for her future students.”