Experiencing the beauty and history of Greece

Tell us a little bit about yourself! What are you involved in on campus?
My name is Kaylie Springer, and I am from Dubuque, Iowa. I am a psychology and sociology double major with a minor in social welfare. On campus I have been involved in a variety of activities. I am a member of the softball team; am involved in Dance Marathon; tutor in the Writing, Reading, and Speaking Lab (WRSL); work in the social sciences office; am a student member on the Institutional Review Board (IRB); and part of many research opportunities. I also enjoy volunteering and have been involved in Unified Sports Day and other volunteer activities throughout my time at Wartburg.

Why did you choose Wartburg?
I chose Wartburg because it is a true family. Wartburg College has allowed me the opportunity to be a part of a competitive softball program while receiving a multidisciplinary education. I knew the moment I stepped on campus that I would be proud to call Wartburg College my new home and I have no regrets!

Why did you choose your majors?
I chose to major in psychology and sociology because I have a natural interest in investigating how the crossover of multiple psychosocial fields can be applied to helping people with limited resources regardless of their race, culture, or native language. My majors have fully integrated my interests and have allowed me to gain both practical and research skills within the social sciences.

Kaylie Springer

What has been your favorite Wartburg experience?
This is a tough question, there are so many. One of my favorite experiences has been being a part of the Wartburg softball program. I have the most incredible teammates, coaches, and support system within this program and have enjoyed winning back-to-back conference tournament championships and making it to two NCAA tournaments (which included making it to the Sweet 16 my sophomore year)! We also got to travel to Italy and play teams from around the world, which was an awesome experience!

What are your plans after graduation?
After I graduate, I plan to attend either Boston University, Emory University, or the University of Iowa to get a master’s degree in public health on the community and behavioral health track.

How did Wartburg prepare you for the next step?
Wartburg College has prepared me for graduate school through the course content, the research experience offered, and the development of my communication and professional skills. I was greatly inspired by my distinguished psychology and sociology professors at Wartburg College throughout the years. The research experience I have received from Wartburg has prepared me to enter an intensive research program in the future. I had the opportunity to participate in a competitive undergraduate research internship program with Columbia University’s Global Mental Health Program, which is something I never would have gotten accepted into if it had not been for Wartburg’s emphasis on research.

Any advice for current students?
If I were to give advice to any underclassmen, I would say enjoy each moment because time truly does fly by. Do not be afraid to put yourself out there and always bet on yourself. The connections you make during your time at Wartburg and the experiences you will have will set you up for a successful future!