Maddie Schaefer

High school: Elgin High School

Hometown: Elgin, Ill.

Majors: Psychology; communication studies

Minors: Public health; women, gender, and sexuality studies

Activities: Jenny Lind Choir, Chi Alpha Pi sorority, Psi Chi honor society, Campus Ministries

Internship: AVID tutor/mentor in the Rock Island-Milan School District

Post-grad plans: I am planning on taking a gap year/service year to gain experience and figure out my plans for grad school.

Why Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø?

Honestly, I was uncertain about Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø at first. Both of my parents had attended Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø, so I was concerned that I wouldn't be following my own path. However, as time went on, I became more and more confident in my decision. I quickly realized that I could still make my time at Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø my own in many ways. 

As someone with a variety of passions and interests that I couldn't always pin down, the interdisciplinary liberal arts approach was really interesting to me, too.

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

Yes and no. It can be hard to know what to expect out of college. I definitely had trouble imagining what I could accomplish and who I could be. 

However, looking back, I am not surprised at where I am today. I had a great foundation for my education, and I always had confidence that Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø would be a great place to continue that.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

I have many former teachers and professors to thank for helping me to get to where I am now. Across all different departments at Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø, I have had great professors and advisors who have genuinely expressed their interest in my academic success and personal well-being.

Aside from faculty, I have met many amazing people at Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø who encouraged me to be myself and to try new things.

Additionally, I am grateful for my family who has always encouraged me and challenged me the right amount. I appreciate my family and friends, both at home and at Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø, for their continuous love and support.

Peak experience?

My peak experience was living in Rock Island this past summer. I spent part of my summer working at Spring Forward, a program for students in the Rock Island-Milan School District.

I was out of my comfort zone, as I was not used to working with elementary schoolers, but it was a really valuable experience. This past summer was also a opportunity for me to learn more about the Quad-Cities community and become closer to some great friends.

What surprised you?

Something that surprised me is how many unique places there are in/near the Quad Cities. Especially in the past year, I have enjoyed little things like trying new local restaurants or finding cool nearby hiking spots.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

The study abroad program that I planned to go on was canceled due to COVID-19, and I have not found another feasible opportunity to use my Augie Choice.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss the unique educational environment that Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø has to offer. I have truly loved getting to learn about a variety of subjects and important issues through my various classes, as well as through campus events.

The community at Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø is another thing that comes to mind. I'll miss running into friends all around campus and living only a short walk away from my best friends.

Advice for the Class of 2026?

Just do your best to experience and appreciate the great things that Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø and the Quad Cities have to offer!

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