Allison Roessler
Graduation year: 2026
High school: Conestoga High School
Hometown: Berwyn, Pa.
Majors: Communication sciences and disorders (CSD); Spanish for professional use
Minor: Psychology
Activities: Augustana Student Speech Language and Hearing Association, varsity softball (three years)
Internship: Student clinician at the Barbara A. Roseman Center for Speech, Language, and Hearing at Augustana
Post-grad plans: I am attending the University of Pittsburgh to get my master's in speech-language pathology!
Why Augustana?
I chose Augustana for a variety of reasons, including the small class sizes and close relationships with professors. I thrive in cohorts with closer relationships, and not large lecture-hall style classes.
The major deciding factor that pushed me to Augustana was the undergraduate CSD clinic experience. It is rare for an undergraduate, but Augie seniors get the opportunity to use therapy techniques as clinicians, with their very own clients!
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
Coming to Augustana I knew I wanted to major in CSD and play softball. However, what I didn’t know was how much I would fall in love with and dive into my major. Applying my knowledge through the clinic has been super rewarding, and I am very excited to continue my education in graduate school!
Who helped you get to where you are now?
I wouldn't be where I am without my mom. She is the main reason I am who I am today. Her constant support, while often states away, kept me pushing through the hard times, and was a positive boost whenever I needed it!
Additionally, my professors/supervisors have greatly impacted my academic experience and fostered my passion for CSD. Especially Dr. Potratz, who I was fortunate enough to work under as a research assistant, and who provided invaluable mentorship.
My friends, along with my entire CSD cohort, have been a positive driving force, bettering me both in and out of the classroom!
I wouldn't be where I am today without meeting all of these fantastic people.
Peak experience?
My absolute peak experience was the opportunity to study abroad for a whole semester in Seville, Spain! I loved every minute of my time abroad. I was fortunate enough to be able to continue my Spanish studies both with other study abroad students and with native Spaniards at the University of Seville. Total culture immersion, and opportunities to travel and experience the country made for an all-around unique and fantastic semester!
What surprised you?
I was surprised at the amount of knowledge and experience I have learned and gathered in my future professional field. Overall, I feel really prepared to continue my education in graduate school. I also found out after committing to Augie that my great-aunt graduated here for CSD in the class of '65!
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice for my study abroad experience in Seville, Spain!
What will you miss the most?
I will miss the friends I have made along the way. I'm from Pennsylvania, and many of my friends are from Illinois. I do not look forward to being states away. I will also miss the nature on campus — as I will be living in a city for grad school — from the Slough to the colorful trees changing through the seasons.
Advice for the Class of 2030?
Take advantage of all that Augustana has to offer! Whether through extracurriculars, clubs, Augie Choice or research positions/possibilities, there is something out there for everyone.
"Allison demonstrates strong critical thinking skills and has an exceptional ability to translate academic knowledge into effective clinical practice. I had the pleasure of being one of her clinical supervisors this year, and she is a natural at building rapport with clients and their families. She communicates in a clear, supportive manner that fosters trust and collaboration. I am confident that Allison will make meaningful contributions to the field of speech-language pathology."