Mikayla Kelly

High school: Plainfield Central High School

Hometown: Plainfield, Ill.

Major: Business administration – management

Minors: Entrepreneurial studies, environmental studies, biology and geography

Activities: Business Club, Chi Alpha Pi (CAPS) sorority, women's varsity tennis (three years)

Internship: Augustana's EDGE Center 

Post-grad plans: Project manager assistant at Northwest Mechanical

Why Augustana?

In high school, I was overwhelmed in choosing a college for the next four years, let alone a major and living by myself for the first time. I eventually landed on Augustana, and I wouldn't pick any differently if I could go back. The study abroad experiences I have had, the courses I've taken, the professors/faculty who have become mentors, and the opportunities for success that Augie gives every student is undeniable. The community at Augie is what makes it more than just another college in the Midwest.

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

This might sound cliché, but Augie pushed me out of my comfort zone in friendships/social, classroom, professional and personal environments. As a timid freshman, I thought graduation was so far away, and now it's creeping up on me in two months. But in that time, I've become more confident in my skills and abilities, but also have grown so much as a person. The growth that happens when you allow yourself to really lean into the Augie community is something that I'm forever grateful for.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

There are so many people at Augie who shaped my college years, but also those who weren't on campus who also impacted me. I could go on and on about my personal circle of roommates, friends and of course family that was always rooting for me, but just to name a few people on campus: Beth Ford in CORE, Dr. Thornblad, Dr. Mahon, Doug and Andy in the EDGE Center, and Dr. Lashley.

The professors listed have become a mentor to me or their classes made an impact on me and provided insight into areas that eventually shaped my career path and fields of interest. 

Beth Ford saw my college career evolve from being on the first-year study abroad trip in Ecuador to working through my career confusion as a career coach in CORE and always being a friendly face on campus. 

Doug and Andy in the EDGE Center pushed me during my internship to learn new skills in Excel and improve my work ethic and self-drive, as well as providing invaluable insight into potential career opportunities.

Peak experience?

I have so many top moments at Augie, but to narrow it down, I think it would be junior year Parents Brunch. It is something that CAP does every spring semester where parents, siblings and grandparents visit. It is such a special event because it gave me the chance to share the Augie campus and also show my parents, who shaped my whole childhood, the people who fill my college days and are shaping my college experience. It was my worlds colliding in the best way!

What surprised you?

I was surprised by the amount of support and sense of community that get built around you during these four years. Don't get me wrong, the weeks surrounding midterms and finals are stressful, but those stressful times are what makes your bonds stronger. I learned to look forward to making a quick stop in the Brew after class or working on homework in a dorm lounge with friends.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I studied abroad three times during my four years, and I used my Augie Choice on my junior year J-term trip to Greece. The trip was focused on the sites and monuments of Greece, and it also fulfilled my "Perspective of the Arts," so what better way to fulfill a required class than travel abroad!

What will you miss the most?

The people and community are what I will miss most about Augie. From walking around campus and seeing fellow CAPs, classmates and roommates to also the randomness of it all. The memories made on the rare-but-hoped-for-snow days, impromptu CSL "family" dinners with friends/roommates, family and parents visiting campus, and exploring the Quad Cities — one local restaurant and bar at a time. Especially as a senior, I have to remind myself to soak in these last couple months.

Advice for the Class of 2030?

You will feel overwhelmed, anxious, confused, maybe even terrified, especially at the start. It's so normal to feel those emotions. Your first year will be a whirlwind of emotions and adjustment, but it's so worth it. Be yourself, and you will find your people!