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Allison Pease
More Than I Imagined Seniors reflect on accomplishments and look ahead

Allison Pease

Graduation year: 2018

Majors: Geology, physics 

Activities: Udden Geology Club, Augustana Physics and Engineering Society, Sigma Gamma Epsilon (earth sciences), Epsilon Sigma Alpha (service), Phi Beta Kappa

Internships: Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, Columbia University (summer 2016): I worked with Dr. James Davis to determine a sea-level budget along the East Coast of North America. Geophysical Laboratory; Carnegie Institution for Science (summer 2017): I worked with Dr. Stephen Gramsch to determine which minerals within the Humite mineral group undergo an isostructural phase transition. 

Post-grad plans: I will pursue a Ph.D. in geology with a focus in mineral physics and experimental petrology at the University of Michigan. 

Why Augustana?

It was during my campus visit that I decided to attend Augustana. I met the geology faculty and current geology majors. Each person I met genuinely loved the department. Their passion allowed me to know instantly that I wanted to become part of the Augustana community.

Are you where you thought you’d be when you first came to campus?

Yes, to an extent. I thought I would attend graduate school after Augustana, but I thought that I would be pursuing a degree in geophysics. However, after working with professors, I discovered that I am passionate about experimental research.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

So many people helped me get to where I am now. However, the geology and physics faculty were the most influential. To name a few, Dr. Jeffrey Strasser, Dr. Michael Wolf and Susan Wolf have been extremely supportive. They have supported me throughout my studies and research (even when I doubted myself). Each of them has pushed me to become a better scientist, and without their guidance I would not be where I am today. 

A peak experience?

Backpacking the Grand Canyon and snorkeling with sea turtles in Hawaii were my peak experiences at Augustana. Both of these experiences were thrilling and allowed me to see some incredible sights. 

How did you use Augie Choice?

I spent my Augie Choice money studying abroad in East Asia during the fall of 2016. The trip took me to Japan, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Hawaii.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss the people at Augustana the most. Everyone is welcoming and supportive; no matter where you go on campus, there is always a friendly face.

Advice for the Class of 2022?

Talk with your advisors and upperclassmen. Your advisors can give you valuable advice, and fellow majors can help you get through some tough times.

"Allison is the epitome of an exceptional student. She truly has a voracious appetite for learning and scientific experimentation. Allison’s eagerness to understand scientific concepts deeply has not only driven her to take advantage of every Augustana academic opportunity, but also to seek out and create new academic opportunities for herself. I can’t wait to see where her University of Michigan Ph.D. path leads her and what new opportunities will feed her academic hunger and intellectual drive."

– Dr. Michael Wolf, professor, geology, and Fritiof Fryxell Chair of Geology