Kierstyn Rogers
Graduation year: 2024
High school: Prairie du Chien High School
Hometown: Waukon, Iowa
Major: Communication sciences and disorders (CSD)
Minor: Communication studies
Activities: Chi Alpha Pi sorority, varsity soccer, admissions tour guide and volunteer chair, student CSD researcher
Internship: Killean Audiology
Post-grad plans: Purdue University's Doctorate of Audiology program
Why Augustana?
I chose Augustana because the college offered a strong CSD program, providing me with opportunities for hands-on learning, research and personal development. Additionally, Augustana's campus environment, with its supportive faculty, diverse student body and vibrant campus life appealed to me. I was also able to continue my athletic career as well, making connections both on the soccer field and in the classroom.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
I took a totally different route than what I thought I was going to pursue in my academic journey. I have gained so much experience in the classroom and outside campus that I truly feel confident in my ability to achieve my goals and be successful. It's ok to not know everything your first year. All good things take time!
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My parents played a key role in pushing me to always reach for the stars.
My academic advisor, Dr. Ann Perreau, helped my find my passion for audiology and figure out a future path for me to take. With her guidance, applying for grad school felt like a breeze. All my professors in each class helped widen my perspectives on various topics.
My teammates pushed me to excel athletically and academically. My awesome boss in admissions taught me how to work efficiently and effectively while having fun!
Finally, the members of Chi Alpha Pi taught me how to lean on others for support and be a leader.
Peak experience?
Traveling to Naperville, Ill., for the 2024 Illinois Academy of Audiology conference and helping Dr. Perreau present her research on online tinnitus counseling. I made meaningful connections with professionals in my field that will help me in the future. I also learned so much while attending.
What surprised you?
I was surprised by how friendly and welcoming everyone on campus was! I came here not knowing anyone and was nervous about making friends, but I had no trouble. It is so easy to make connections and find jobs that help boost your résumé. Everyone here truly wants to help you succeed.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I am planning on using my Augie Choice to travel to Italy after graduation with the women's soccer team and compete internationally as well as learn from a different culture.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss all the people I've met while here at Augustana. The advisors, professors, classmates, sorority siblings and teammates have helped me grow as a person and given me so many memorable moments.
Advice for the Class of 2028?
Go to the activity fairs, job fairs and learn as much as you can about all Augie has to offer. Get as involved as you can and be grateful for every moment you have here because it goes by in the blink of an eye!
"Kierstyn is a highly engaged, enthusiastic student who demonstrates a high degree of initiative and leadership of our most celebrated Augustana students. She is a talented student-athlete in women’s soccer, having earned Academic All-Conference honors at Augustana, and an accomplished student in our CSD major. We look forward to seeing great things from Kierstyn as she pursues her future dreams and aspirations!"