Katey Clark
Graduation year: 2024
High school: Washington Township High School
Hometown: Valparaiso, Ind.
Major: Elementary education
Minors: Psychology; K-12 Reading Teacher Endorsement
Activities: Varsity volleyball, Delta Chi Theta sorority, intramural sports
Internship: World Classrooms
Post-grad plans: Teach in an elementary school for Chicago Public Schools
Why Augustana?
I chose Augustana because of its rigorous education program, and I knew it would prepare me well as a teacher. However, I first toured Augustana because my sister attended here and had a really great experience. I knew our interests were different, but we both love having a community that supports us and one where we can pursue our academic and personal goals.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
I never would have expected to have as many leadership opportunities as I have had when I came here as a freshman. I became a tour guide for potential volleyball players at Augustana, am currently the president of my sorority, and have had internships and job experiences that have given me rich experiences for my future job as an educator.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My elementary education advisor Dr. Randy Hengst first gave me the confidence as a teacher candidate and really pushed me to be where I am as a senior. In my upperclassman years, Dr. Egan has been very supportive and guided me to think more broadly about the world. This year, in my Reading Endorsement classes, Dr. Hinzman-Ferris has given me the tools that I need to be successful in practicing ethical teaching and researched based methods.
Lastly, I could not be where I am today without the support of my friends and family, who have always encouraged me to do big things and reach for the stars.
Peak experience?
My peak experience has been the relationships I built within my elementary education cohort. They have become some of my best friends at Augustana and have always been able to empathize with me throughout my journey as a student.
What surprised you?
I was surprised at how many resources Augie provides for their students. I always knew there were perks with attending a small college, but Augustana really wants each student to be successful.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice to go to Jamaica with other education majors, led by Dr. Egan and Dr. Scarlett. This was one of the best experiences I have ever had in my life. Getting to learn about Jamaican culture has made me fall in love with the country and its people.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss always seeing familiar faces around me and getting to hang out with my friends whenever I want.
Advice for the Class of 2028?
Take advantage of the resources that Augie provides for you! Go to office hours, CORE, the Reading/Writing Center, etc. It is amazing how much more you can make out of your time here!
"Katey brings an unshakeable enthusiasm to all that she does. She isn’t afraid to ask the difficult, probing questions to become the best teacher that she can be. She knows that the answers to her questions are meaningful, not only in terms of her own learning, but also in terms of her future students’ learning. It is clear that Katey is passionate about education — both as a learner herself and as a future teacher."