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sara fitzgerald
More Than I Imagined Seniors reflect on accomplishments and look ahead

Sara Fitzgerald

Graduation year: 2014

Majors: Mathematics, secondary education

Activities: Habitat for Humanity, Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity, Concert Band

Post-grad plans: Find a job teaching math and eventually get my master’s.

Why did you choose to attend Augustana?

My decision was based on the small class sizes, the ability to participate in a variety of activities and organizations, and financial assistance.

Are you where you thought you’d be four years ago? 

Four years ago, I did not know exactly what I would experience at Augustana so I did not know where I would be at this point. I came in with the desire to study mathematics and become a math teacher, so that has stayed the same. However, I did not know what organizations I would be a part of and the places I would travel to, which have played a part in where I am today.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

My family has really helped me get me to where I am now. They were always there for me providing the support and encouragement I needed.

A peak experience?

Going to the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind and presenting at the Association of Teacher Educators was my peak experience. It really opened my eyes to all that I take for granted in my daily life and the resources offered at Augustana.

What did you learn about yourself in these past four years that surprised you? 

In these past four years, I was surprised to find how capable I am of being a leader.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used Augie Choice for the Australia Study Abroad Term.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss having my friends so close and the beautiful campus to walk across every day.

Advice for the Class of 2018?

Be willing to try new things. Augustana has a lot of different things to offer you, from classes to sports to clubs to music. If you never try something new, you will never know what you are capable of or what else you can try.

"Sara is quiet so it is easy, at first, to miss that she is a powerhouse of ability, organization and drive. In four years, she earned a math major and secondary education certification, student taught and completed a term abroad and an internship."

- Dr. Stacey Rodman, associate professor, mathematics and computer science