Elizabeth Mireles
Graduation year: 2026
High school: Muscatine High School
Hometown: Muscatine, Iowa
Major: Public health
Internship: Trinity Muscatine Public Health Department
Post-grad plans: I plan on going directly into the workforce!
Why Augustana?
After completing my associate's degree, I was unsure of what my next step would be. Then, Augustana checked off so many of my boxes: closeness to home, amazing academic and professional outcomes, and the uniqueness of a smaller college offering a bachelor's degree in public health.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
No! When I came to campus, I felt so much imposter syndrome. I was so scared; I half-expected someone to stop me during the first week and tell me I was in the wrong place.
Even in the relatively short time I’ve attended Augie, I have grown so much. I’ve learned to be more confident in myself and to value my own unique experience rather than compare it to others.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
Many people have helped me get to where I am today. Dr. Lena Hann, my advisor, has had a significant impact on me throughout my time at Augustana. I am in constant awe of the number of lives she has shaped over the years of her teaching, and I will forever be grateful for the understanding, advocacy and support she extended to me.
My best friend, Keegan McNelly, has been a pillar in my life for the last five years. I would not be where I am today without the unwavering love and support that he has given me.
Most of all, I am here because of my dad, Mario Mireles. My dad has never doubted my ability to achieve anything that I set out to achieve. Everything I have accomplished has been to honor the tremendous sacrifices he made in hopes of giving his children a better life. Without the values he and my abuela instilled in me, I would not be here today.
Peak experience?
My senior year Homecoming and Family Weekend. It was so nice to be able to share my college experience with my family. All the events and courtesies extended to us from clubs and campus organizers made for such a special time.
What surprised you?
I was surprised by how quickly I was able to make so many friends! Everyone is so excited to create new connections, and I found it really easy to develop friendships with my peers and great relationships with my professors.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss most of all the closeness of my public health cohort. There is something so unique about developing as a young adult with a group of people who are going through similar pressures at the same stage of life, each with their own experiences and backgrounds. I have truly made the strongest connections through my major, and I will miss being surrounded by such bright and supportive individuals.
Advice for the Class of 2030?
Closed mouths don't get fed! You will be surprised by how willing people are to help you succeed. Simply taking the first step to reach for an opportunity can take you so far.
"Elizabeth has flourished as a young public health professional in her time at Augustana. From her internship at the Trinity Muscatine Public Health Department, to developing a comprehensive health literacy toolkit, to peer mentoring her Senior Inquiry colleagues in professional poster design, she has gone above and beyond the traditional classroom experience. Her ability to connect with others will take her far, and we’re excited to have front row seats to her professional adventures ahead. Congratulations, Elizabeth!"