Reigna Hels

High school: Naperville North High School

Hometown: Naperville, Ill.

Major: Psychology

Minor: Creative writing

Activities: Black Student Union, Reading/Writing Center tutor, PACE mentor, Heavy Steppas

Internships: Behavioral tech at The Family Recovery Centers in Plano, Ill.; family advocate intern at the MLK Center in Rock Island, Ill.

Post-grad plans: Pursuing a Master of Social Work at Aurora University

Why Augustana?

When I was a senior in high school, I didn't think college was an option for me. I didn't allow myself to have a dream school or lofty goals because I did not think I could financially have that opportunity. 

However, the affordability of Augustana and its amazing psychology program gave me the privilege to begin dreaming about what pursuing higher education could look like for me. Every time I visited or read more, Augie became the dream, and I'm so thankful for it.

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

I'm not at all where I thought I'd be, but in the best ways possible. When I came to campus, I was so shy and overwhelmed with all there was to do here. I've grown so much and become absolutely confident in my capabilities and reason for being here.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

My communities and all the other upperclassmen who came before me have helped me get to where I am now. Even though I was shy and reserved, I was welcomed into the Black Student Union, the Reading/Writing Center (RWC), and Office of Student Cultural Connection (OSCC). 

These communities were rich with people who had been in my situation before, and were all achieving things that I could have only wished for at the time. The support of the faculty who work in these spaces, and the guidance from those upperclassmen are what encouraged me to get out of my shell and do more. 

If it weren't for my PACE mentor Aniyah Davis, Heavy Steppas President and Founder Andrew Leon-Sanchez, RWC Director Lucas Street, and OSCC Director Ashley Allen, I would not have felt comfortable enough to become who I am now.

Peak experience?

My peak experience was performing at Sloughfest with the Heavy Steppas in 2023. We were the first student dance group to ever be chosen, and we had worked all year to be prepared for that audition. I was the only freshman on the team, and I was so scared to be in front of that many people. 

We practiced day in and day out, and when we finally performed, it was such a culminating experience. I felt like I was really a part of a team, and that our art brought joy to other people.

What surprised you?

There is truly something for everyone here. I was so surprised by how many student organizations there were, the deep history a lot of these groups have, and how passionate the student body is in supporting one another.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice to study in Guatemala. It was one of the most transformative experiences I've ever had. It's been three months since I've gotten back, and I still can't believe I was able to go.

What will you miss the most?

I'll miss the people the most. There will always be another class, another deadline, another job or task to accomplish. While I'm forever a piece of the communities that have welcomed me, all of us seniors have to move on to make space for the amazing incoming class. I have so many opportunities ahead, but I'll miss overcoming the challenges with the people I love dearly.

Advice for the Class of 2030?

Trust yourself. On the days where you don't trust yourself, fake it. No one is perfect, and no one is always 100%. You have to trust that you made it here for a reason, and that you too can accomplish the things you see your peers achieving. You've got this!