Aaron Rogers
Graduation year: 2026
High school: Moline High School
Hometown: Moline, Ill.
Majors: Accounting; business administration (finance)
Activities: Student Investment Fund; Accounting Club
Internship: Accounting internship at Deere & Company World Headquarters in Moline, Ill.
Post-grad plans: An audit position at RSM
Why Augustana?
I chose Augustana for its tight‑knit learning environment and meaningful access to professors. At Augustana, I valued being more than a number. A strong student‑to‑faculty ratio let me build real relationships and get personalized feedback. Just as important, Augie offers countless ways to contribute beyond the classroom, and I was excited to make a visible impact on campus from day one.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
I’m already farther along than I ever pictured. I didn’t have a specific long‑term plan, just a sense that I wanted to do something in finance. Thanks to the courses, hands‑on experiences and a timely nudge from Dr. John Delaney (I never would’ve picked accounting without him), I’m now launching my career at a leading accounting firm, working with incredible companies to help dial-in their operations.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
I’m here because people showed up for me.
Dr. Delaney, my advisor and professor, pushed me toward accounting and helped me turn it into a clear path. Professor Mahon taught me how to communicate like a professional and think through real-world issues, already making an impact on my early career.
My family gave me unwavering support while I balanced classes and work. And the Student Investment Fund gave me community, a space to explore real finance topics with friends and remember why I love this field.
Peak experience?
My peak Augie experience was no doubt the Student Investment Fund. I went from portfolio analyst to VP to president (junior and senior year) and helped grow weekly attendance from 3 to 40+. It became a true community — friends debating markets, building pitches and practicing professionalism through feedback and interview prep. That mix of rigor and support taught me to think clearly, present simply and lead the club to the best of my ability.
What surprised you?
How simple it was to get involved on campus. Whether it was joining a club, going to sporting events or bingo, or going to a professor's office hours, it was easy to meet someone new and form connections with other students and faculty members. This is how I met some of my closest friends, who I will have for the rest of my life.
What will you miss the most?
I’ll miss the people most — the friends, mentors and professors who made Augie feel like home. The Student Investment Fund was my hub for debate, pitches and real growth; it’s where I became a better professional and teammate. And I’ll miss the campus itself ... quiet walks, river views and sunset studying that made hard days better.
Advice for the Class of 2030?
Find professors, mentors and friends whose standards are higher than yours and let them pull you up. Surround yourself with the kind of people you want to become (there are plenty at Augustana), and work your tail off to reach and surpass their standard.
"Aaron is extraordinarily self-disciplined and determined. He has put his heart into his academics, his long-term internship and his co-curricular involvements. He’s a natural leader and seems at his happiest when he is sharing what he has learned with others. Aaron has an energy that’s unmatched, and I look forward to seeing how he will use that to create good outcomes for himself and the people around him!"