Molly Fank
Graduation year: 2023
High school: Wheaton Warrenville South High School
Hometown: Wheaton, Ill.
Majors: Sociology and anthropology, Spanish, pre-law program
Minor: Political science, communication studies
Activities: Varsity women's soccer, Delta Chi Theta sorority, Pre-Law Association, Mortar Board honor society, Omicron Delta Kappa honor society, Student Athlete Advisory Committee
Post-grad plans: Law school
Why Augustana?
I chose Augustana because of the community I felt on campus when I would visit. I would visit my sister, Anna, and always felt so welcomed and comfortable. By attending Augustana, she and I were able to play soccer together her senior year and my freshman year.
Not only was the community so welcoming, but I knew I would be getting an amazing education and have awesome experiences on the soccer field!
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
I would never have imagined all my dreams would actually come true. In high school, I would always say I wanted to be a lawyer, but I never imagined it would actually be a possibility.
Augustana has given me so many opportunities and so many amazing friends who have helped me along the way. The professors here have pushed me to be the best I can be, and I know since coming to Augustana, I have become the best version of myself.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
I met my best friend and now three-year roommate Ava Rogers at the first Welcome Week event I attended! Since meeting Ava, we have made so many friends and have supported each other to step out of our comfort zones. Also, since joining Delta Chi Theta sorority, I have been pushed into new positions in the group and had so many people cheering me on.
On the soccer team, my teammates and coaches have always been there for me and encouraged me to continue growing.
My professors have really left a lasting impact on my learning. They have taught me so much that will help me in my next steps. Augustana has provided me with so many resources that have helped me surpass my goals and reach my dreams.
Peak experience?
My favorite Augustana experience was my freshman year when the Augustana women's soccer team beat Wheaton in PKs [penalty kicks] in the CCIW tournament semi-finals. This experience to me was my peak Augustana moment because we were the underdogs, but we never stopped fighting!
What surprised you?
I was the most surprised by how many amazing people I met here! Going to a smaller college like Augustana scared me originally, but I met so many amazing people and professors, which helped me realize I made the right choice.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice to study abroad in Alicante, Spain. I went during the summer term, and it was the trip of a lifetime. I had the best time in Spain with my other Augustana friends, and I cannot wait to go back!
What will you miss the most?
I will miss warm, sunny days on campus with my friends. My favorite thing to do is grab a group of friends and hang out or do homework outside. I will miss living with everyone on campus and just being able to all get together whenever we have time.
Advice for the Class of 2027?
Get involved in any way possible. Joining new clubs and groups is a great way to meet people and make new friends. Also, a busy schedule helps keep everything moving in your day!
"From the very first day she arrived on campus, Molly has been an incredible leader and driving force in our continued success on a regional and national level for women's soccer. She has inspired and motivated her teammates for the last four years and has been a model student-athlete for Augustana. I couldn't be happier about all Molly has accomplished and everything she has contributed to our program!"