Doug Peters
Graduation year: 2013
Majors: Neuroscience, biology
Activities: Delta Omega Nu fraternity, OSA (Office of Student Activities) Executive Board, Greek Council Executive Board, Phi Beta Kappa
Post-grad plans: Doctorate program in microbiology at the University of Colorado at Boulder
Why did you choose to attend Augustana?
I've lived in the Quad Cities my entire life and was exposed to Augustana throughout my childhood by my parents and grandparents. Augie also has a strong biology department, which interested me.
Are you where you thought you’d be four years ago?
I had no idea where I was going to be at this point in my life. Looking back, though, I’m happy with what I’ve accomplished.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My parents and siblings, obviously, but also my fraternity brothers. Without them my college experience would have been much less fulfilling. I think Dr. Heidi Storl and Dr. Dave Hill have been the most influential professors for me at Augie. They have both taught me ways to experience the world that changed my life thereafter.
A peak experience?
Working at OSA for Ken Brill for the past three years. I learned valuable skills on how to make an office run smoothly and how to plan events. It was such a far cry from my classwork in biology and neuroscience, but I really enjoyed the opportunity.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I participated in the Texas Medical Center Internship Program in Houston. I worked in Dr. Mary K. Estes's molecular virology lab at Baylor College of Medicine. My mentor was Dr. Joseph Hyser, an Augustana grad.
What did you learn about yourself in these past four years that surprised you?
I really enjoy event planning. Coming into college I would never have expected to get into that sort of thing. I also didn't think I would get involved in Greek Life as much as I am.
What will you miss the most?
My fraternity brothers.
"Doug is the sort of student that professors notice and don’t forget — but for all the right reasons! His ability to assimilate ideas and his sense of curiosity are remarkable: This term he is completing a literature-based independent study with me on the ways that viruses affect neural function. It is a true blessing to have had a student like Doug in class — he’s the sort who pushes his professors to keep growing and learning! I look forward to seeing the projects Doug tackles during grad school and in his post-graduate career."