Becoming the best version of yourself — a changemaker, an innovator, a leader. That’s what a quality college education helps you achieve. Quad Cities-area students don’t need to go far to earn a meaningful education. It’s right in their backyard, at St. Ambrose University.
“I love going to school locally,” said Evelyn Shaw ’26. The graphic design and digital media production major graduated from North Scott High School in Eldridge. “I get to meet new people from all around the world, make new friends, try new things, and really broaden my horizons, all while I can still go home for a family meal or to see my dog whenever I want. For me, it really is the best of both worlds.”
Staying near home hasn’t been limiting for Shaw. She’s a member of the dance team, graphic design chair for the PR and marketing committee of Dance Marathon, and a graphic designer for the athletics information department. Another advantage to remaining local: she can leverage her connections to further her future career.
“I’ve been able to get internships through connections in the community, and the school has a lot of graphic design contests that I’m able to enter and build my portfolio through.”
Most recently, she won a sticker design contest hosted by the university’s admissions office. Her design is being mailed to all students admitted to SAU for the fall of 2026.
For Sam Kelting ’27, an English and public relations major who graduated from Davenport Schools, moving away from home wasn’t something he was interested in.
“I have so many family and friends here, and going to another school farther away would’ve been difficult. I enjoy the experience of being in college while being in a familiar backdrop.”
And at SAU he’s found a comfortable and supportive environment that’s building his confidence for a future career.
“The small class sizes at SAU really make it easier to connect with peers and teachers. I can reach out for help whenever and get a response which is really nice and helps me a lot.”
After high school, Juniper Daffer’s ’28 family moved to the Quad Cities. In choosing a college, the Nevada native didn’t want to be too far away from family. That’s why Daffer was excited to discover the perfect school was right next door.
“Being able to live in town and commute to and from school has made things so much easier for me,” said the multimedia journalism and graphic design major. “I get to experience all the fun things that come with college without having to feel any sort of homesickness. It’s quite the win-win for me.”
Despite living off-campus, Daffer is gaining the full St. Ambrose experience.
“I am part of the Honors Program as well as an editor for Her Campus. Even though I don't live on campus, I still participate where I can.”
Gain an affordable and transformative education in your own backyard. Apply to SAU today.
