A transfer student’s journey at Augustana

After serving in the U.S. Navy and earning an associate degree in surgical technology, Caleb Bishop ’28 from Davenport, Iowa, transferred to Augustana College to pursue his passion for biology. Through faculty mentorship, hands-on research and a summer internship, he has developed his skills as a scientist and begun preparing for graduate school.

Q: What led you to transfer to Augustana College?

Bishop: I came to Augustana after completing a full enlistment in the Navy as a corpsman and earning an associate degree in surgical technology. I wanted to continue my education and explore my passion for biology in new ways. Since coming to Augustana, I’ve developed my research skills, learned from experienced professors and broadened my academic experiences.

Q: What have been some of your most memorable experiences at Augustana?

Bishop: I’ve really enjoyed my research with Center for the Advancement of Community Health and Wellness (CACHW), the City of Davenport and Dr. Kimberly Murphy on urban stream water quality. I applied for a summer research internship and was accepted!

Developing a research project to investigate biofilter performance and bacterial contamination in local watersheds has been an awesome, hands-on way to grow as a scientist.

Q: How was the transition to Augustana as a transfer student?

Bishop: I was welcomed quickly, and faculty members helped answer my questions. That made transferring a lot easier than I expected. The transfer advisors were very helpful, too. Once I declared my major, I received great support from the biology department.

Q: What are your plans after Augustana, and how has your experience here prepared you for what’s next?

Bishop: I’m preparing to apply to graduate school and pursue a degree in crop sciences. Through my classes, labs, research experiences and excellent mentorship, I feel well prepared for that path. Augustana allows you to try on these experiences before you make the commitment, so I am pretty confident in my choice.

Q: What advice would you give students considering transferring to Augustana?

Bishop: I wouldn’t hesitate to start looking for mentors. In my experience, faculty members are eager to guide motivated students toward success. I learn a tremendous amount in class, but my commitments outside the classroom have made the biggest impact on my professional growth.