Nicole Romano
Graduation year: 2018
Majors: Accounting, business administration-management
Minor: Spanish
Activities: Phi Rho sorority, Augustana Symphonic Band, Flute Choir, Student Advisory Council, accounting tutor
Internship: The summer before my senior year, I interned at Crowe Horwath LLP in Oak Brook, Ill., as a federal tax accountant.
Post-grad plans: This summer I will be sitting for the CPA exam. In the fall, I will start my career as a federal tax accountant at Crowe Horwath LLP.
Why Augustana?
When I first stepped on campus, I knew it felt like home. Not only did the exceptional accounting department and high-level music ensembles appeal to me, the friendly and welcoming atmosphere set Augie apart from every other school I had looked at.
Are you where you thought you’d be when you first came to campus?
Not at all. When I came to college, I was very timid. After being at Augie for four years, I can say that Augie has helped me gain so much confidence in myself. I would have never thought I would be principal flutist of a prestigious ensemble or have an amazing job in accounting straight out of college.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
John Delaney and Gregory Tapis pushed me farther than I could have ever expected in the accounting major. I have them to thank for preparing me to be the best accountant I could be after college.
James Lambrecht played a crucial role in making me the person I am today. Professor Lambrecht acted as a father figure to our whole band, and I consider myself so lucky to have worked with him for the past four years.
Lastly, I would like to thank my parents for pushing me so much academically. Without them, I would never have the motivation and drive that I have today.
Peak experience?
My peak experience would be my summer internship at Crowe Horwath. Augustana prepared me extremely well for this position. I had the ‘soft skills’ that other interns did not exhibit.
What surprised you?
I learned that hard work really does pay off. With some hard work and faith in yourself, you really can achieve anything. My four years here at Augie have proven that to me.
How did you use Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice toward an international tour to Spain with the Augustana Symphonic Band. We played concerts in Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia during those two weeks.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss the faculty as well as being able to live with some of my best friends.
Advice for the Class of 2022?
Do not take a second of your time at Augie for granted. These four years really do go by in a blink of an eye, and I will miss it dearly.
“I first met Nicole when she was visiting Augustana her senior year of high school. She made a great impression, and it was clear to me she would be a bright and engaging student. Nicole did not disappoint, and four years later she will be starting her accounting career at Crowe Horwath. She will no doubt be a star at Crowe. Nicole is one of our go-to students to meet with high school prospects because she is the perfect example of someone who can accomplish many great things at Augie in just four years. It has been a great pleasure working with Nicole.”