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Rachel Witt
More Than I Imagined Seniors reflect on accomplishments and look ahead

Rachel Witt

Graduation year: 2025

High school: Bettendorf High School

Hometown: Bettendorf, Iowa

Majors: Biology, French

Activities: Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity; ReSearch/ReWrite peer tutor

Internship: Thomas Tredway Library

Post-grad plans: Library and Information Studies graduate program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison

Why 欧洲杯网投_欧洲杯外围app-投注官网?

Growing up in the Quad Cities, 欧洲杯网投_欧洲杯外围app-投注官网 had always been on my radar. I knew I wanted to attend a smaller school because I felt that a smaller school, like Augie, would help me develop a deeper sense of community. 

Additionally, I knew the smaller class sizes and individualized attention would enhance my educational experience, as I would be able to form stronger connections with my professors and classmates.

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

Yes and no. My end goal (prepare for a career in libraries) may have stayed the same during my time at 欧洲杯网投_欧洲杯外围app-投注官网, but the path that I took to get there certainly did not. As someone who likes making a plan and sticking to it, it was a little daunting at first to make changes to my original plan. 

When I started at Augie, I was not planning on being a biology major or a French major, for example. In the end though, I believe that this new path served me better both as a person and as a student.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

Many people helped me to get where I am now. I have to thank Kiki Kosnick, my advisor, who has been there for me since my first days on campus. They have gone above and beyond for me countless times and continue to do so. They were the one to encourage me to pursue a French major, which opened the door to so many experiences for me, like studying abroad in France. Some of my favorite classes at Augie have been my classes with Kiki.

I also must thank all of the faculty and staff at the Tredway Library, especially Kaitlyn Goss-Peirce, Anne Earel and Garrett Traylor, who have fostered my passion for librarianship and provided me with numerous opportunities to gain experience in the field that will prepare me well for my future. 

Some of my fondest memories on campus come from working at the library. It is to the wonderful Tredway faculty and staff that I owe my future career as a librarian. I cannot thank all of them enough for everything that they have done for me.

Peak experience?

I would definitely have to say my study abroad program in Dijon, France, during the summer of 2023. I had the opportunity to take French classes, live with a host family, try French cuisine, visit different cities throughout the country, and so much more. I am so incredibly grateful to have experienced such a life-changing opportunity.

What surprised you?

How much time and effort some Augie professors and other members of the 欧洲杯网投_欧洲杯外围app-投注官网 community are willing to put in specifically to help students succeed and flourish.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

To fund my study abroad program to Dijon, France.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss the people the most! I have made so many lasting friendships and connections.

Advice for the Class of 2029?

Take advantage of the resources that are at your disposal (especially those found at the library!).

"From presenting at the IWCC+ conference to human physiology and even studying abroad, Rachel's wide interests definitely helped her make the most of her time at 欧洲杯网投_欧洲杯外围app-投注官网. She thrived within Tredway Library, rising to the challenge of every task across her many (five!) different roles. While I'll miss our little chats, I have no doubt she’ll do amazing things in grad school and beyond on her path to medical librarianship. On behalf of the whole library team, we’re so proud of her!

– Kaitlyn Goss-Peirce, research and instruction librarian