Annie Stanislawski
Graduation year: 2021
High school: James B. Conant High School
Hometown: Elk Grove Village, Ill.
Major: Elementary education
Minor: Spanish
Activities: Jenny Lind Choir, Best Buddies, Chi Alpha Pi sorority, Club Ed
Internship: Student teaching at Pleasant View Elementary in Bettendorf, Iowa
Post-grad plans: Teach fifth grade at Cody Elementary in LeClaire, Iowa
Why Augustana?
I was pretty much committed to a different school when I decided to give Augie another visit. I soon came to realize the other school could not offer me what Augie could.
In addition to the benefits of being a small, liberal arts college with a strong education program, Augie gave me an individualized experience that fostered my other passions in leadership, music and art.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
Yes and no. I’ve known I wanted to be a teacher since the fourth grade. While growing up, this dream was fueled by a love for organization and working with kids, and while Augie has reaffirmed that passion, it has also shown me the more rewarding aspects of teaching, and even more importantly, learning.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My inner and outer circles at Augie. My peers that grew to friends, my friends that grew to best friends, and my professors who encouraged me to be vulnerable and pushed my thinking.
I owe everything else to my selfless parents and supportive family who continue to surprise me with how driven they are in and outside their careers.
Peak experience?
My student teaching experience would definitely be up on the list. It was exciting to have the opportunity to implement all the content, methods and clinical practice from the past few years in a real classroom. This year brought new challenges, which only better prepares me for my future classroom.
What surprised you?
My professors. I was pleasantly surprised to see how even at the collegiate level, teachers still hold the same love of teaching and passion for their students. I admire their desire for students to strive for higher levels of thinking and to empathize with others.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
My original plan for my Augie Choice was to use the funds for my summer study abroad experience in Spain. Due to COVID, my program was sadly canceled, as was my next attempt to study in Paris over J-term. With Augie’s flexibility, I was able to retroactively receive the funds, which I am now saving
What will you miss the most?
I will miss my Augie community! Whether it’s in or outside of the classroom, I’ve always known there were countless people in my corner to offer advice and perspective. I have grown so comfortable with the support system here and will miss it so!
Advice for the Class of 2025?
While I’d like to refrain from being TOO cheesy, I do advise our future class to cherish the little moments. It seems odd enough now, but I will miss my days hanging out until 2 a.m. with my friends in the Westie lounge and sitting out in the backyard of my senior house soaking up the sun.
"What a pleasure it has been to work with Annie over these past three years. During her student teaching, I was there to witness how all of her hard work came to fruition. Annie exudes a true joy for learning that is contagious and was openly shared with her students. She interacted with her students in ways that fostered their engagement with each other and the curriculum. Congratulations, Annie, on accepting a teaching position in the Quad Cities! I look forward to hearing how it goes. Start planning now to work with Augie student teachers in the fall of 2024. Thank you, Annie, for coming to Augie!"