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Sabrina Hill
More Than I Imagined Seniors reflect on accomplishments and look ahead

Sabrina Hill

Graduation year: 2018

Majors: English, Spanish

Activities: Búhos, Spanish Club

Internships: I interned with River Readings, Palomares Social Justice Center, and Full Spectrum Features.

Post-grad plans: I received a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship (ETA) grant to Argentina. In the time between graduation and my departure, I hope to work in the Chicago area. 

Why Augustana?

I liked learning in smaller, discussion-based classes. I also wanted to learn how to be a critical thinker, and knew the liberal arts experience would help me with that. 

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

I definitely thought I was going to be in STEM when I got to Augustana, but a few professors helped me realize my strengths in English literature and Spanish. I ended up switching paths quickly. 

Who helped you get to where you are now?

First term, freshman year, Dr. Margaret France encouraged me to take more English classes. She helped me understand that success is subjective and that texts are meaningful and important. Without her, I would not have had the confidence to focus on what I loved or apply for a Fulbright. 

Dr. Araceli Masterson helped me explore my Senior Inquiry topic so thoroughly that I have actually started to consider grad school! Her dedication to Palomares Social Justice Center is truly inspiring. She is constantly helping others and the community in every spare second that she has.

Dr. Megan Havard and Dr. Jeffrey Ratliff-Crain helped me successfully make it through my Fulbright application. I’m really grateful for the faculty here at Augustana. Thank you! 

Peak experience?

Being at the top of Montaña Machu Picchu in Peru was very memorable for me. It was a physically trying and rewarding experience. 

What surprised you?

I learned that I have a lot of control over my future. I feel really empowered to find a career that inspires me. 

How did you use Augie Choice?

I used Augie Choice for the Ecuador summer program in 2016. 

What will you miss the most?

I will definitely miss teaching community English classes with Búhos every week. 

Advice for the Class of 2022?

Do not compare your success to others!

Sabrina didn’t set out to be a Fulbright recipient or even start out pursuing Spanish and English as majors! She brought a lot of personal strengths to Augustana—a willingness to fail and to move on; 'grit' with a mix of passion and perseverance. By combining those characteristics with the opportunities provided by Augustana and by her own making (study abroad, teaching in the Quad Cities, moderating Sustained Dialogues and more), she made her college experience transformative.”

– Dr. Jeffrey Ratliff-Crain, associate dean, curriculum and enrichment