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Colette Salinas
More Than I Imagined Seniors reflect on accomplishments and look ahead

Colette Salinas

Graduation year: 2017

Majors: History and secondary education 

Activities: Chi Alpha Pi sorority, Epsilon Sigma Alpha service group, Order of Omega, Phi Beta Kappa

Internship: I was a student teacher in world studies and American history for the 9th, 10th and 11th grades at Davenport West High School.

Post-grad plans: I am currently looking for a teaching position, and in a year, I hope to be attending graduate school.

Why Augustana?

I had a teacher who went to Augie and since he was like a mentor to me, I thought I should check the school out. The first time I visited, all the students were so friendly, and I felt so at home!

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

I am exactly where I thought I would be, and I am so glad that Augustana has allowed me to grow and achieve as much as possible. 

Who helped you get to where you are now?

The number one person who has helped me is my advisor Dr. Scarlett. He has been there through every high and low; I couldn't have asked for a better mentor. Dr. Scarlett has helped me pick classes, been my liaison with other faculty and constantly reassured me.

A peak experience?

My peak experience was definitely becoming a peer mentor. I loved helping first-year students transition, and it helped me stay connected to the other classes. 

What surprised you?

I learned that I don't have to say ‘yes’ to every opportunity. Even a Type A person such as myself had to learn to take time off every once in a while.

How did you use Augie Choice?

I will be using Augie Choice this summer for the Rome Learning Community.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss being a part of my sorority, as I will never again have such a large network of wonderful and diverse women—who support me through thick and thin—at my fingertips. 

Advice for the Class of 2021?

Make friends with as many people as possible! You’ll slowly find your group, but it’s the early people who will challenge you, make you laugh, shape you in a way you never could think of!

“I am going to miss Colette. Her sarcasm, her passion for history, our wide-ranging conversations from Taoism to Game of Thrones, have enriched my life the last three years. She will be missed, but I am so excited to see where life takes her. Augustana has prepared her to do just about anything, and I have no doubt she will go on to do great things!”

– Dr. Michael Scarlett, assistant professor, education