Sofia Versluis

High school: Moline High School

Hometown: Moline, Ill.

Majors: Psychology; public health

Activities: Sigma Pi Delta sorority, Community Advisor (CA)

Internship: Community Health Care, Inc.

Post-grad plans: Attend the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, Mo., for its Master of Social Work program

Why Augustana?

To be honest, at first I wasn’t too sure about Augustana. It was the last school I toured, and I was afraid it was too close to home (Moline) and that it wouldn’t give me the opportunity to truly be myself.

It was after touring the campus that I fell in love. Augustana ended up being the exact makeup of undergrad that I had dreamed of. The small class sizes and community have helped and pushed me to become more self-confident and enjoy every memory.

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

Absolutely not. My freshman year I majored in history and wanted to become a teacher. Also, campus was much lonelier than I originally expected. I started to have doubts about if Augustana was the place for me or if college was. 

It wasn’t until I switched to public health that I felt at home. I was an extremely shy person, and I struggled to get out of my shell. Today I am still shy, but I am ble to connect with people and put myself out there, whether that be academically or socially.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

I owe so much of who I am to my friends and family. My family has always supported my college journey and encouraged me to pursue every opportunity. As a first-generation student, I strive to make them proud and show my gratitude.

For my friends, if it weren't for them, I would probably be cooped up in my room and missing out on wonderful memories. I want to give my sorority, Sigma Pi Delta, a shoutout. This group has given me so much confidence, and their belief in me has impacted me in ways they will never understand fully.

Thank you, Dr. Megan Lorenz and Dr. Hann, my advisor. Thank you to the public health and psychology departments for providing amazing courses and advice during my four years here.

Lastly, I want to give a thank you to young Sofia. If it weren't for her pursuing college, I would not be here today. I thank her for being scared and doing it anyway.

Peak experience?

In January 2025, I had the amazing opportunity of traveling to Cambodia with the communication sicences and disorders department to engage in ethical service learning. This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We visited elephants in their natural habitat, taught English in schools, appreciated Cambodian culture and learned about ourselves. This trip allowed me to do a lot of self-reflection and think about what I value in life. I came out of this experience with much more gratitude for myself and others.

What surprised you?

How common it is to feel lost and not know who you are. I thought that everyone was supposed to figure out who they are and want to be by the end of freshman year. I couldn’t be more wrong. I was surprised by the amount of grace I was able to give myself and not feel bad about it.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice for Cambodia: Ethical Service Learning in January 2025. We spent three weeks in Cambodia exploring the country, visiting ancient temples and admiring the natural beauty and history of a hidden gem of a country.

What will you miss the most?

This may sound cliché, but I will miss the people the most. Every memory I have is filled with my favorite people, and I will be sad not to see them every day once I graduate. I am going to miss the random side quests and hangout nights. I am not the best at sharing my emotions, but I want all of my friends to know I will miss them dearly.

Advice for the Class of 2030?

We all move at different paces, and there is no set finish line. Comparison is the thief of joy. Follow your own path and be true to yourself. Also, remember to hold yourself accountable and make your own decisions.