Audrey Zettler

High school: Routt Catholic High School

Hometown: Jacksonville, Ill.

Majors: Geology, Spanish for professional use

Activities: Spanish and geology subject tutor, Udden Geology Club, women's club soccer, TriBeta Biology Honor Society, Sierra Club, Sigma Pi Delta sorority, Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Honors Society

Post-grad plans: Attend the University of Chicago and begin a Ph.D. in the geophysical sciences

Why Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø?

I chose Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø because of the small classes, its proximity to home, the clubs on campus and the amazing geology program. Each time I toured Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø and met with faculty, I felt instantly welcomed and at home.

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

No. Before attending college, I was worried about making friends and being involved on campus. However, I quickly found that other students, faculty and mentors are extremely welcoming and allowed me to gain confidence as well as provide me with amazing research and extracurricular opportunities. 

I would have never guessed that I would now be the president of the women's club soccer team and vice president of Udden Geology Club!

Who helped you get to where you are now?

I am very grateful for my family, friends and professors who have helped me throughout my college journey.

I want to especially thank the geology department for helping me develop as a researcher, student and peer. Each professor has challenged me while also providing me with countless experiences in the classroom, lab and field. 

I would like to especially thank Dr. Kelsey Arkle for being my research advisor and encouraging me to pursue my interests and always being there when I was seeking advice. I also want to thank Susan Wolf for being an amazing mentor and bringing in a positive attitude, while helping me prepare for a professional career.

The Spanish Department also provided me with many opportunities as well as significantly strengthening my understanding of the Spanish language and different cultures. I want to especially thank Dr. Megan Havard-Rockwell for also being my Senior Inquiry advisor and encouraging me to explore my unique interests.

Peak experience?

It is difficult to choose! However, I will never forget doing summer research in Bonaire with the geology department when we studied coral reefs using an underwater drone. I also enjoyed my time in the Mojave Desert and taking a geology field course for the first time.

I will also never forget the summer I spent in Ecuador taking classes and living with a host family. It was a transformative experience that gave me the confidence to speak Spanish in public.

What surprised you?

I was surprised how much Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø has to offer, especially in terms of education, study abroad opportunities and professor support. I was not expecting to have close relationships with many of my professors. I also did not expect to gain this much research experience and travel abroad as many times as I did!

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice during my summer study abroad in Ecuador!

What will you miss the most?

I will miss my geology cohort the most. I have really enjoyed being part of an amazing class that is encouraging and always down to travel, hike and camp outdoors.

Of course, I will also miss my professors and my friends from soccer and Sigma Pi Delta sorority.

Advice for the Class of 2029?

Ask for help when you need it, go to office hours, ask about research and job opportunities, and show enthusiasm. Also, do not be afraid to join new clubs and social groups.