Jaclyn Schmidt

High school: Harry D. Jacobs High School

Hometown: Algonquin, Ill.

Majors: Psychology; pre-occupational therapy (OT)

Minor: Kinesiology

Activities: Phi Rho sorority, Jenny Lind Chorus, peer mentor

Internships: I helped launch the Fit & Strong! program at Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø (fall 2023-spring 2024); occupational therapy shadower at Northwestern Medicine CDH in the Movement Disorders and Neurodegenerative Disease Outpatient Center (summer 2024); Black Hawk Area Special Education District (spring 2024); Rock Valley Physical Therapy (fall 2023-spring 2024); My Recess Therapy (summer 2023); and Sweet Pea's Therapy (fall 2022)

Post-grad plans: Attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison starting in June to earn my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy!

Why Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø?

I chose Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø because I knew this place would allow me to thrive by maintaining my versatility while pursuing a top-tier, affordable education. When I started college, I wanted to stay active, continue singing in choir and get involved in new communities ¡ª like joining Greek life. 

By continuing to nurture all of my passions while also broadening my perspectives and deepening my understanding of the world around me through a liberal-arts education, I knew Augie was where I was meant to go!

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

I've far exceeded what I ever imagined for myself. Augie taught me how much your environment can shape your growth and reveal the power of working towards making positive changes for your future. 

My social circles I've developed here have inspired me countlessly and helped me connect with many opportunities. The mentors I've had along the way have provided unwavering support and held me accountable in all the best ways.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

The best friends I've made through my sorority have truly been my lifelines here on campus. They have stood by me through my highs, lows and everything in between ¡ª yet still have shown up for me with unconditional love and encouragement. I wouldn't be the woman I am today without the strength of their character that they brought into my life. 

I also want to express my deep gratitude to my mentors and former professors ¡ª Dr. Kimberly Murphy, Dr. Lisa Szafran, Dr. Shaun Edmonds, Dr. Jamie Nordling, Dr. Jessica Schultz, Dr. Scott Gehler, Professor Maureen Holmes and Dr. Deke Gould ¡ª for being an integral part of my academic and personal growth. 

Each of them has guided me with a deep commitment to helping me reach my fullest potential, while also encouraging me to prioritize my well-being along the way. 

Even though some of these professors aren't within my major, I firmly believe they've played a vital role in inspiring the path I've taken. That's why Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø is so special to me.

Peak experience?

My peak experience was participating in an immersive, interdisciplinary study abroad program that was focused on learning cultural competence, education, systemic inequality and social justice in Guatemala.

This experience offered profound insights into global privileges and the complex intersection of poverty, education and resilience. It deeply shaped my worldview and inspired me to have a lifelong commitment to advocacy, which will be pivotal in both my personal and professional future.

What surprised you?

The wide range of opportunities available to students, and the ability to pursue many of them simultaneously, has been incredible. I've studied abroad twice, gained extensive shadowing experience, developed key leadership skills through various extracurricular activities and employment opportunities, all while maintaining my schoolwork and graduating early!

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I studied abroad in the Caribbean Netherlands! Even though the class wasn't within my major, it was an experience of a lifetime. I became SCUBA-certified and learned about geology ¡ª two things I'd always wanted to do! 

I also earned a Passport Grant, which allowed me to study abroad again at Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø!

What will you miss the most?

I will miss the friendships I've cultivated here and the beautiful campus the most. As someone who has graduated a semester early but still lives by Augie, it is already hard to not see a bunch of friendly faces waving to you as you walk to class on campus!

Advice for the Class of 2029?

Make the most of opportunities lying ahead of you, and know your growth isn't always linear. It's okay to not know where you will be in the future, but working hard piece-by-piece every day will get you where you'll see the magic happens. And have lots of fun along the way, because there's always time!