Skip to main content
Michael Rogers
More Than I Imagined Seniors reflect on accomplishments and look ahead

Michael Rogers

Graduation year: 2017

Majors: Accounting and business administration-finance

Minor: Sociology

Activities: Camp Kesem, Dance Marathon, Crew Team, varsity baseball (two years), Delta Omega Nu fraternity (honorary), Accounting Golf Outing Committee

Internships: I was a financial analyst associate intern at Passage Global Capital Management in Bettendorf, Iowa, during the winter of my junior year. I spent spring of my junior and senior years as a busy season tax intern at Anderson Lower Whitlow PC in Bettendorf. In the summer between my junior and senior years, I worked as an intern in the accounting policy and reporting group at U.S. Cellular in Chicago.

Post-grad plans: I will be working at Deloitte in Chicago as an audit associate. I also plan to sit for the CPA exam this summer.

Why Augustana?

I wanted a college where I could be involved in a variety of activities while being presented with great academic opportunities. I was looking for a school where I could form relationships with professors who were truly invested in my success.

Are you where you thought you would be four years ago?

I didn’t know where I would be four years ago. The range of experiences I have had from internships, sports and clubs really allowed me to find myself and discover my passions. I have become a more well-rounded person in my time at Augustana and could not be happier with where I am today.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

My professors were by far my biggest influences. I would have to credit my success to the accounting faculty, especially Dr. John Delaney and Professor Nadia Schwartz. Dr. Delaney helped me find my passion for accounting early on and was always willing to lend extra help outside the classroom or discuss important career decisions. Professor Nadia Schwartz taught me through some of the tougher courses and helped me realize the successful accountant I could be. My parents also provided overwhelming support and were always willing to offer advice. They have played a huge role in my success.

A peak experience?

I don’t know if I can point out one moment in my past four years. It has really been a culmination of many experiences. Forming lifelong friendships with classmates, building relationships with professors, and networking with terrific and helpful alumni have all come together to form an experience I will remember for years to come. So many moments have built on one another to create a four years I am extremely proud of.

What surprised you?

The biggest thing I learned here was to set high goals. You will be surprised what you can accomplish if you stay focused and resilient. Also, it’s okay to fail because that is when the greatest learning is done. Invest in others and allow others to invest in you. Help others because seeing the world from another point of view can be a very valuable thing.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice this past summer while working as an intern at U.S. Cellular in Chicago.

What will you miss the most?

I am definitely going to miss the people at Augustana. There are so many incredible individuals here, and I have been very fortunate to have spent my time with them. I am also going to miss the organizations I’ve been involved with. Being able to go to class and practice and then partake in a charitable fundraiser all in one day is a unique thing. I never predicted I would meet so many people and learn so many things through these different experiences. Augustana really allows you to do it all.

Advice for Class of 2021?

Join a variety of organizations. Don’t be nervous to try new things because those experiences will give you some of your best friends and greatest memories. The best way to figure out what you truly love is to try out different things! That is all possible in the unique experience that Augustana offers.

“I had the great pleasure to have Michael in class during his sophomore year. However, his junior year was a game-changer for him. His dedication to learning and his outstanding work ethic have led him to positions in SEC reporting at U.S. Cellular, two successful busy seasons with a local CPA firm, and finally, a full-time offer from Deloitte. His hard work has paid off. I look forward to his updates beyond Augie.”

– Nadia Schwartz, assistant professor, accounting