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Ashley Adams
More Than I Imagined Seniors reflect on accomplishments and look ahead

Ashley Adams

Graduation year: 2018

Majors: Communication sciences and disorders, neuroscience 


Activities: Delta Chi Theta sorority

Internships: Children’s Therapy Center of the Quad Cities; Neurology Consultants; University of Iowa research assistant; in-home applied behavior analysis therapist

Post-grad plans:
 Attend Illinois State University to obtain a master’s in developmental psychology, then pursue a Ph.D. in clinical neuropsychology



Why Augustana?

I attended Augustana specifically to earn a degree in communication sciences and disorders because I aspired to be a speech-language pathologist. 

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


I decided to pursue a career in psychology my junior year at Augustana, which was not at all what I had originally intended. I had always imagined that I would move on to a graduate program, but never in the field that I am now. If it were not for attending a liberal arts school, I would never have been able to make that transition so late. I feel so lucky that I now have the opportunity to explore what I truly love, and I owe all my thanks to Augustana.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

Augustana’s outstanding faculty has cultivated my unprecedented desire to pursue a career in psychology. They have supported me and guided me throughout my academic transition away from speech-language pathology. They have provided me with confidence and the tools I need to succeed in my future academic endeavors. I will be forever grateful for my many dedicated mentors.

Peak experience?

I have sought out a number of experiences ranging from off-campus employment, study abroad, research and unique internship opportunities to make the most out of my time as an undergraduate student. As a result, I’ve had many experiences that have shaped me into the student and individual I identify with today. My peak, I believe, was when I studied abroad in Cambodia as a sophomore. I was faced with a number of challenges when I first came to Augustana, and it took me a while to figure out what I am capable of. Cambodia term gave me the positive perspective on life that I desperately needed. FIND A WAY TO STUDY ABROAD! 

What surprised you?


I learned that I could overcome challenges. This sounds sort of silly, but because of everything I have experienced at Augustana, I am confident in my ability to be persistent and believe in myself. Now, more than ever, I recognize that my goals are absolutely attainable—look how far I’ve gotten!

How did you use Augie Choice?


Studying abroad in Cambodia.

What will you miss the most?


Definitely my friends—they feel like my family, and I am totally going to be lost without them. S/O to the Clubhouse!

Advice for the Class of 2022?

It is never too late to expand your interests, explore beyond the limitations of the college and take risks. I would not be where I am now if I didn’t take the time for each of these things. Have fun!

“Ashley demonstrates more initiative to achieve her goals than any student I have ever worked with, but even more importantly, she is a sincere student who loves learning. She has engaged in an impressive number of high-impact internships and on-campus research experiences, and generously brings those experiences back to the classroom to enrich discussions with insightful questions and helpful suggestions for fellow research students. We look forward to all she will achieve at ISU and beyond!”

– Dr. Shara Stough, assistant professor, psychology and neuroscience