Livy Sholl

High school: Rock Island High School

Hometown: Rock Island, Ill.

Major: Middle grades education: science

Activities: Varsity women's swimming and diving

Internship: Student teaching at Bettendorf (Iowa) Middle School

Post-grad plans: Continue to teach, as well as swim coach in the Quad Cities

Why Augustana?

When I was in the process of transferring schools, all I knew I wanted was a place that would help me thrive both academically and athletically, which is exactly what Augie offered. I was also in the process of figuring out a new major to switch to, and seeing how many different majors there were really excited me. After talking to different professors, coaches and students on campus, I knew that this would be a place that would set me up for success.

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

I am definitely not where I thought I would be when I came to campus. Coming into Augie, I still did not fully know what I wanted to do or how my experience would look since I was transferring from a different institution. 

Now, I feel like it is safe to say that my experience at Augie was more than I imagined. I have loved being part of the swim team and building relationships within the community through my student teaching and clinical experiences across the Quad Cities.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

There is a huge support system that helped me get to where I am today. There are so many great relationships I have built during my three years at Augie, many of which shaped both who I am as a person and what I will do post-grad.

All of my professors in the education department have really helped me grow as both a person and a professional. I have taken their advice and continued to build on all of the goals they have set for me. Without their constant support, I would not have been able to blossom into the teacher that I am today.

My teammates and my coaches, Ramsey and Amy, have also pushed me to be the best person I can be both academically and athletically. I knew that if I ever needed anything or was having a tough day, they would always be there to support me. Being on the team has given me such a good community experience, and I would like to create that for both my students and athletes now and in the future.

Peak experience?

My peak experience has been student teaching at Bettendorf Middle School. This experience has allowed me to do so many things, such as create my own lessons that are fun for students, develop an idea of what I want my classroom to look like in the future and collaborate with other teachers. I have enjoyed building so many great relationships with both my students and other staff members, as well as seeing the growth I've had as a teacher.

What surprised you?

I was surprised by how much the professors and coaches truly want you to succeed, both academically and athletically. I always knew that if I ever had questions, I could reach out to my professors, and they would be happy and willing to help. If I needed additional support, my coaches and teammates would always be there for me.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice for my student teaching, which allowed me to build a professional wardrobe, purchase materials for some of the lessons I taught, and cover other general expenses.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss the community I have at Augie. One of the things I love most about Augie is the relationships I have been able to create with my peers, teammates, coaches and professors, and they have made the time go by fast. Their support has truly helped me succeed and motivated me to continue to grow.

Advice for the Class of 2030?

Your time at Augie will fly by so quickly, so make the most out of the experience! Use the opportunities that Augie has to offer, get involved in activities on campus and build relationships with the people around you.