Aaron Deter is looking forward to the courses and conversations he'll have at St. Ambrose University, and the expansive impact those will have on his life.
"I am going to meet people from all different places, people who hold different outlooks and perspectives than I do," he said. "I will be introduced to a whole new world."
The first-year student will join the university this fall as an Ambrose Scholar, a recognition that includes a full-tuition scholarship. He was awarded the scholarship based on academic achievement and an essay he wrote about his involvement, leadership, and desire to impact SAU.
"A big reason I came to St. Ambrose is because it is a smaller university and it offers more of a community feel than would exist if I went to a big state school," he said. "I think it really helps when you are familiar with everyone and in smaller classes to have more in-depth conversations. It allows for more back-and-forth communication instead of a lecture," he said.
In high school, Aaron learned there are benefits to broadening your worldview and experiences. "You don't have to stick to one thing. You can branch out and have different interests and friends. I did so much in high school and I learned that everything I do helps me with the next thing," he said.
The Illinois State Scholar graduated earlier this year from Morrison (Illinois) High School with a 4.0 GPA.
In addition to serving as student council vice president, Aaron was a member of Key Club, National Honor Society, Future Farmers of America, and a leader in the Building Lasting Impressions that Never Die (BLIND) Leadership Program.
He played basketball and track, and his senior year was captain of the varsity football team and named an Illinois Academic All-State student-athlete.
His junior year, he was the recipient of the 2017 Good Citizen Award from Daughters of the American Revolution and was recognized with the E.M. Bud Cole award for his leadership and integrity in sports. It is an award usually given to a member of the senior class.
Aaron contributed to his community as a food bank volunteer, as a member of High School Youth Fellowship, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and served as a K-8th grade youth leader at his church.
At St. Ambrose, Aaron plans to get involved in Campus Ministry activities and intramural sports. In fact, his interest and skills in sports led him to a work-study position with the athletic training department, which he describes as "the best of both worlds."
"There's no question of whether I will be involved in the ebb and flow of the school, just whether I'll have any time to sleep in between all of the bustlings of college life," he said. "Not only do I believe I am capable of positively impacting St. Ambrose University, I am ready and excited to do just that," he added.
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