Christina Harvey

High school: Wheaton Warrenville South High School

Hometown: Wheaton, Ill.

Majors: Communication sciences and disorders (CSD), psychology

Activities: Phi Rho sorority, Vikettes Dance Team, Augustana Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASSHA)

Internship: Texas Medical Center Summer Research Internship Program – Hyperacusis Research Project in the HEAR-T Lab

Post-grad plans: Attend Marquette University to get my master's in speech-language pathology!

Why Augustana?

I chose Augustana because of the close-knit feel that I felt on campus. I loved the idea of getting to know my professors on a personal level rather than just be a number. 

I also loved all of the opportunities that Augie provides like taking classes outside of your major to experience other studies and viewpoints, which has helped push me to be the best student I can be.

All of the friendly and welcoming faculty and students have made this campus truly feel like a home away from home!

Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?

I am further than I ever thought I would be and have exceeded my expectations as a student, friend and mentee. I have had many opportunities that I never imagined I would have, such as taking on leadership roles in my sorority and various clubs as well as participating in research internships.

The past four years here have helped shape me into the person I am today and who I had always dreamed of becoming.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

There are many people in my life who have helped me get to where I am today! My family and close friends have always been there for me when I needed it most. My amazing professors and mentors that I have collaborated with over the years have helped me as well. Notably, Dr. Ann Perreau who introduced me to the CSD research field and inspired me to apply for the Texas Medical Center internship.

Everyone in my CSD cohort and in ASSHA have also played a large part in my successes as a CSD major! 

Everyone in the two extracurriculars I have been involved in for all four years, the Vikettes Dance Team and the Phi Rho sorority, have helped push me and shape my experience at Augustana for the better. 

I wouldn't be where I am today without all of the people I have interacted with and who stood by my side for the past four years!

Peak experience?

My peak experience was going to Houston for the Texas Medical Center Summer Internship Research Program. 

Before coming to Augie, I never envisioned myself applying for let alone getting to experience such a prestigious internship. My internship under Dr. Kate Hutcheson exposed me to a new side of CSD that I previously had no knowledge of. 

My experience also would not have been the same without all of the other students that I got to share it with!

What surprised you?

One thing that surprised me were the leadership opportunities I have gotten. From being co-captain of the dance team to presenting at a conference, I never would have imagined that I would have the confidence to be the leader I have become!

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice to study abroad in Guatemala, and I can say it was one of the best experiences of my life. The trip taught me that it is important to step outside of your comfort zone and get comfortable being uncomfortable because that’s where the magic happens!

What will you miss the most?

I will miss all of the wonderful people I have met through Augustana. Many of my professors I’ve had throughout the years have quickly become the people I aspire to be one day, and I know I can always count on them for support. 

Also, all of my friends I have made over the years have helped me create my dream life at Augustana. My college experience has been that much more special because of all of the great people who have helped shape it!

Advice for the Class of 2029?

Get close with your professors! This was something I heard many times when I was an incoming freshman, and I completely agree with it. The professors here are some of the best people around and expose you to new ideas every day!