"I found a community at St. Ambrose."
Twyla is an independent soul who created her own path to college. She chose to become an Ambrosian, in part, for our small class sizes and the comprehensive education we provide. Then, we exceeded her expectations by providing a personal, supportive and encouraging community where she thrived.
Current position: HR & Safety Manager, George Evans Corporation
After high school, Twyla took a gap year to pursue her passions. She explored Asia and the U.S. before returning to her hometown in Long Grove, Illinois, to work full-time and examine her options for higher education. During a holiday celebration with her best friend, some of the extended family members mentioned a six-generation tie to SAU. It sparked Twyla's curiosity and she took a tour. She discovered community at St. Ambrose and gained a quality education that launched her professional career.
Why SAU?
Twyla attended a high school with 5,000 students where the classes were huge and often teachers didn't remember if they had her in a class, or which one. There was little time for one-on-one help. SAU's 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio was very appealing to Twyla. "I'm a fan of the smaller classes, and it was a nice transition. The whole-person, individual education they talk about at SAU is something you really see. I've experienced it."
How were you involved at SAU?
Twyla is creative and likes to perform, so she found numerous ways to get involved. She was a member of the SAU Dance Company, University Chorale, and Bella Voce (women's acapella). She was the cardio dance instructor for student fitness classes and assisted the Art Department and Catich Gallery with marketing. Twyla had several part-time jobs, and her work experience was highly valued by her professors. They often asked her to share her professional experiences with the class.
What did you value most about your Ambrosian experience?
Twyla says the dedication and support shown by professors demonstrate SAU's commitment to a higher standard of learning. One of her economics professors offered weekend office hours, which worked best with her schedule. Once, when she became overwhelmed by all she was juggling she went to lunch with her professor who listened and encouraged Twyla to put herself first. When she discovered a possible gap in financial aid, several professors walked her through other options. And, an English professor gave Twyla a list of potential scholarships specific to her talents, interests, and situation. "My professors knew me, they saw a value in what I was doing, and encouraged me to keep going. And as I kept moving forward, they moved forward with me."
Why Choose the Management and Marketing Programs?
Twyla's goal is to someday own a business. She launched her Ambrosian education with a management major, then added marketing when she discovered it would only take one more class to make her minor a second major. Twyla says our comprehensive business programs made it easy to expand her education and dual major. Today, as an HR Administrator & Safety Manager, she is building on the foundational education she received at SAU. "I have so many options. The skills I gained are highly valued in any industry."