Anyango Okech
Graduation year: 2025
High schools: Alliance Girls High School and North Cedar Academy
Hometown: Nairobi, Kenya
Majors: Accounting, philosophy
Activities: Augustana Socratic Society, African Students Association , OISSS (Office of International Students and Scholar Services)
Internships: Accounting intern at Kenya Pipeline Company; audit and assurance intern at Deloitte
Post-grad plans: Audit and assurance staff at Deloitte
Why Augustana?
I chose Augustana because I was looking for a small school where the professors pay attention to students' needs. Additionally, the scholarships and financial awards made the school much more attractive than the others where I was accepted.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
I think I'm in a better position than I thought. I had no clue what I wanted to do and just jumped from major to major hoping for the best. I was taking classes just to take classes with really no clear goal in mind.
My professors helped me realize what I am good at and to develop clear goals that I could work toward.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
Everyone I interacted with helped me to get to where I am now in some way or another. All my professors pushed me to do more than I thought I could because they truly believed in my abilities.
CORE and the accounting department really care about students' future careers and do all that they can to provide the resources to help students reach their goals. I do not think I would have gotten some opportunities without them.
Peak experience?
PHIL 440 Advanced Nietzsche Seminar with Dr. Bonzon; this class TESTED me. It was a truly difficult class and indeed a life-changing experience. A lot of my beliefs were challenged, and I was forced to face a lot of things.
I decided to major in philosophy because it was both challenging and enjoyable, but I could never have imagined I would get to where this class took me. I believe I was broken down and molded anew.
What surprised you?
The relationships that were formed. I didn't think I would have formed such great friendships and relationships with my professors, the chefs in the dining hall and advisors at OISSS (Office of International Students and Scholar Services). All of these people helped me grow so much and have provided me with insight that I will treasure forever.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss being in close proximity with my friends. Though I was in a boarding school in high school, it didn't provide as much freedom (and money) as college does. Being around my friends daily and having the freedom to go wherever and do whatever has been so fun and the basis for so many core memories.
Advice for the Class of 2029?
Fully follow instructions. Your professors tell you to do things a certain way for a reason.
"When Tracy [Anyango] first came to the philosophy department, it was clear that she understood the cultural value of the liberal arts, embracing the careful pursuit of meaning with vibrant curiosity. She approaches difficult, challenging topics with courage and scholarly creativity. Even so, she never loses sight of the importance of historically influential lines of thought. Her dedication to the rigorous, free inquiry of the liberal arts provides an exemplary model for everyone who is lucky enough to work with her."