Shannon Rees
Graduation year: 2021
High school: Schaumburg High School
Hometown: Schaumburg, Ill.
Major: French education
Activities: UNYK, Jenny Lind Choir, Global Engagement Team, International Street Fest Executive Board, Zeta Phi Kappa sorority (honorary)
Internship: Student teaching at Bettendorf (Iowa) High School
Post-grad plans: Teaching Assistantship Program in France (TAPIF)
Why Augustana?
I immediately felt at home the first time I visited Augustana, which is something I didn't feel when I visited other colleges. I also knew I wanted a smaller school where professors would get to know each student individually, and Augie offered just that.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
Nope, I actually came in majoring in physics education instead of French education! But my advisors helped me discover my true passions through the years, and I ended up in French education instead. I also thought I was mainly going to be involved in theatre in terms of extra-curricular activities, but instead I ended up being really involved in planning international events and helping with OISSS [Office of International Students and Scholar Services].
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My advisors, Dr. Schroeder and Dr. Kalas; my professor Dr. Kosnick; and my supervisor Dr. Ana Bordería-García were all very helpful and guided me along the way.
Peak experience?
It's hard to pinpoint one experience as my peak experience, but mostly when I was working with the Global Engagement Team my sophomore and junior year. I helped plan international events such as Diwali, International Street Fest and Friendsgiving. It was really rewarding to see our planning efforts come to life in these events, and to see how great of an impact they had on the international community at Augustana.
What surprised you?
I think the fact that Augie, even though it's a small liberal arts school, has so many alumni scattered all across the globe and doing great things! It just goes to show how far your education at Augie can take you.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice for my student-teaching experience at Bettendorf High School.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss the community and the people I've met here. I've definitely made some friends for life here, and I'll miss just being able to run into them at the Brew or wave at them from across the Quad!
Advice for the Class of 2025?
Don't stress too much about small details. Pay attention while in class instead of zoning out because if you understand what your professor is saying, you don't have to put in as much extra time to understand later! As long as you put in a sincere effort, you'll be okay.
"It’s been a joy to work and learn alongside Shannon these past four years. Shannon has been a steady contributor to my research projects on gender-inclusive French, a welcome voice during class discussions (and in original music videos!), and an exemplary autonomous learner who has shared many skills and gifts with our community. A natural teacher, Shannon’s commitment to social justice, ethical citizenship and lifelong learning makes Shannon the kind of educator the world needs."