Megan Markiewicz

High school: College of the Mainland – Dual Credit Program

Hometown: Houston, Texas

Major: Neuroscience

Activities: Supervised research (two years) with Dr. Rupa Gordon, Psi Chi honor society, Psychology and Neuroscience Club

Internship: Intern for Dr. Brownfield, forensic psychologist and part-time Augustana professor

Post-grad plans: I plan to work as a surgical neurophysiologist, performing intraoperative neuromonitoring for a few years before pursuing a Ph.D. in neuroscience.

Why Augustana?

As a transfer student from a large Texas university, I enjoyed the appeal of a small college. I wanted to learn in an environment where I was close to my professors and classmates. Additionally, I had never attended a liberal arts institution before. The idea of an integrated and multidisciplinary learning structure aligned strongly with my values and love for expanding my knowledge.

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

I am far beyond where I thought I would be come graduation. When I started at Augustana, especially as a transfer student with limited time, I was unsure of what I could accomplish. Now, in two and a half years, I have completed numerous neuroscience research projects, presented research at numerous conferences, completed a study abroad to Germany, and I serve as the neuroscience chair for the Psychology and Neuroscience Club and the Psi Chi honor society.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

I have to thank my professors, specifically Dr. Gordon and Dr. Harrington, from whom I have learned so much in the fields of research and neuroscience. I have to thank Dr. Storl for introducing me to philosophy of mind, a field I didn’t know I loved. Each of these professors and all my other professors have believed in me and guided me with great knowledge and care. I would not be where I am today without them and the opportunities they have offered to me.

Peak experience?

My peak experience has to be conducting research with Dr. Gordon. For two years, I learned how to do neuroscience research, write proposals, read background literature, form hypotheses, collect brain activity via EEG and present all of this efficiently. The knowledge from this experience and the invaluable guidance from Dr. Gordon will carry me far in my post-graduate career and graduate school.

What surprised you?

I was surprised by the numerous activities to get involved in on campus. Between clubs and Greek life, there was something for everyone. I was constantly introduced to internship, research and study abroad opportunities. All of this provided me with the experience needed to be successful post-graduation.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice to aid in financing my study abroad to Germany. During the summer of 2023, I went to Germany with Dr. Harrington and Dr. Storl to learn about neurophilosophy.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss the community at Augustana. The friends and professors I have met along the way have made this experience what it’s been. They are the ones who have supported and encouraged me to pursue my goals. To me, the Augustana community feels like family; it’s the people I’m going to miss most.

Advice for the Class of 2028?

Get involved. There are so many opportunities to make friends and explore your interests. Join clubs, take classes outside of your major, utilize CORE and other services, and take advantage of every opportunity.