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Kate Didier
More Than I Imagined Seniors reflect on accomplishments and look ahead

Kate Didier

Graduation year: 2018

Majors: Accounting, business administration-finance

Activities: Phi Rho sorority, Mortar Board Honor Society

Internships: Audit internship with Plante & Moran (January-March 2018); accounting and finance internships with Charter Dura-Bar (summer of 2017 and 2016)

Post-grad plans: Working full-time as an auditor with Plante & Moran, starting in August, and studying for the CPA exam

Why Augustana?

I chose Augustana because it was a smaller school where I wouldn't be just another number, and some of my family and friends attended Augustana. All of them had great experiences and success at Augustana, so I knew that Augustana would be a great choice for me as well.

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

I came to Augustana with plans to study accounting, but I never could have imagined all of the experiences I have had during my four years here. Augustana has helped me realize my passions and enhance my skills, whether it was from my experiences in the classroom, from meeting new people and developing relationships with them, or from being exposed to a variety of internship opportunities.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

My family has always given me support to pursue my passions, and they have always encouraged me to do my best in everything I do. I have also had many faculty mentors and friends help shape me into the person I am today. Dr. Delaney, Dr. Tapis and Mrs. Mamata Marmé have all pushed me academically in the classroom and outside of the classroom as well. I'd like to thank all of them for making Augustana a great place to learn and for giving me the confidence to work in the world of public accounting.

Peak experience? 

One of my greatest moments at Augie was receiving my full-time offer with Plante Moran in Schaumburg, Ill. Augustana provided me with many resources that led me to this offer. Augie does a great job at helping you build your résumé, interview skills and confidence, and teaching you how to grow as a professional.

What surprised you? 

I have learned that I am capable of more than I think I am. Throughout the past four years, I have completed multiple internships, held several part-time jobs on-campus, completed audit projects and joined Phi Rho as an honorary, all while maintaining excellent academic standing. I have learned that life is full of challenges, and that’s what keeps me motivated.

How did you use Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice while interning at Plante Moran.

What will you miss the most?

The beautiful campus! There are so many places to relax, hang out with friends and walk around, and I will definitely miss seeing the trees change colors in the fall. 

Advice for the Class of 2022?

Get involved, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone!

“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Kate—she’s done a tremendous job in the classroom, and she has been an outstanding representative of Augustana during her internships. Kate has also been one of our most reliable student-workers. I’d say she has certainly made the most of her opportunities these past four years. Plante & Moran, her future employer, made a terrific decision to hire Kate. She will no doubt be a star with the firm and pass the CPA exam in short order. I look forward to following Kate’s future success in public accounting.”

– Dr. John Delaney, professor and chair, accounting