St. Norbert gives students the opportunity to experience the richness of college life, pursue their dreams and expand their knowledge of the world. Every quarter, the St. Norbert Fund profiles a Standout Student who is making the most of that opportunity.
Name: Austin Knuth
Major: History Education, Social Studies Focus
Graduation date: May 2022, GPA: 3.53
Hometown: De Pere, Wis.
Organizations, activities and awards: Adventure Club, History Club, Dean's List
Favorite place on campus
I feel most comfortable in Old St. Joe’s. I was confirmed there, and it has a deep connection to my family.
I’m a commuter student, so instead of going home between classes, I spend a lot of that time in the south teaching wing of the Gehl-Mulva Science Center. It’s a great place to study and it’s where I found my path, thanks to a helpful nudge from my professors. I came in with dreams, but they got me on the right path.
Plans for the future
I’m student-teaching 10th and 11th grade social studies at Southwest High School in Green Bay. After graduation, I hope to teach high-school social studies. I’m open to teaching anywhere.
How St. Norbert has prepared me for success
I think knowledge has transferred well in the classroom! I’ve learned that the most important thing for a teacher is forming connections with students. If you can do that, you’re going to have positive results and create productive relationships. Making a personal connection is something that will help you throughout not only your career, but in life in general.
I always had reassurances from my professors that I was going to do well, and that I was prepared well for the rigors of teaching. And if I was ever struggling and needed help, I could always reach out to them for advice.
What I'll remember most about SNC
I’ll remember the friends I’ve made and the connections with faculty that showed me what I really wanted to do. I got a great education and made some great friends along the way.
Carolyn Schaeffer (Education), Fr. Jim Neilson and Erica Barnett-Southworth (Education) influenced me a lot, and the examples they set will stay with me. They always made time for me and took time to explain how to form true connections with students. They taught me that if I show interest in them, they will show interest in me.
What my scholarship means to me
My scholarship means the world to me. It has given me so many opportunities that I might not have had otherwise. This scholarship ensured that I could come to St. Norbert and receive all the gifts and guidance a St. Norbert education promises.
