Caroline Hartweg
Graduation year: 2018
Major: Elementary education
Activities: Zeta Phi Kappa sorority, Equestrian Club, Equestrian Team
Internship: Student teacher in a fifth-grade class at Hamilton Elementary School in Moline, Ill.
Post-grad plans: Find a teaching job in an upper elementary classroom
Why Augustana?
My brother went to Augustana, and I would visit him here. I fell in love with the campus and ‘small college’ feel.
Are you where you thought you’d be when you first came to campus?
No, I am not. I never thought I would be an elementary education major. I came to Augie thinking that I was going to be a pre-veterinary major.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
All of the education faculty, my first-year advisor and my family. The faculty in the education department all helped me find strength in myself even when I thought I could not get through something. My first-year advisor helped me realize what I wanted to do in my college career. My family pushed me to do whatever I wanted and supported me through the whole experience.
Peak experience?
My study abroad trips to Norway and Jamaica. These trips were just amazing. They gave me experiences and memories that I would never had gotten without Augie’s study abroad programs.
What surprised you?
I learned that sometimes I have to ask for help. I was never one to ask for help because I felt like I was burdening others. However, sometimes you need to ask for help, and it is ok to do this. People are willing to help and want to help. I learned that it is ok to do this, and I am better off for it.
How did you use Augie Choice?
I went on a study abroad trip to Norway during spring break of my sophomore year. Norway was one of the greatest experiences that I could have had. Seeing the Northern Lights, reindeer and other amazing sights will stay with me forever.
What will you miss the most?
I am going to miss my education family. My class of education majors make up a great community of peers. We always look out for one another and support each other in everything that we do. The education faculty is also part of our mini Augie family. I will truly miss all of them.
Advice for the Class of 2022?
Stay positive and have fun. Do not let school run your life. You have to find a balance with your academics and fun. The sooner you find the balance, the more fun you will have in college. Stay active and do not let life get you down. Think happy thoughts and you will do great things.
“In the classroom and as an active member of Augustana’s Equestrian Club, Caroline finds ways to do what it takes. I had the privilege of supervising her during her student-teaching experience. She was selfless in her pursuit of student learning and worked tirelessly to promote a vibrant classroom community. Caroline demonstrated great capability in providing instruction that welcomed and respected individual differences. She was patient, passionate, incredibly organized and was delightfully dedicated to the art and science of teaching. I look forward to Caroline galloping to greatness!”