Alyssa Marzorati
Graduation year: 2026
High school: Boylan Catholic High School
Hometown: Rockford, Ill.
Majors: Neuroscience; biology
Activities: Chi Omega Gamma sorority; Institutional Review Board student representative; Psi Chi international honor society in psychology; Student Research Peer Mentor Program
Internship: University of Iowa Summer Research Opportunities Program (SROP), Daniel Tranel Neuropsychology Research Lab assistant
Post-grad plans: 1-2 gap years (work as a research assistant and apply to post-baccalaureate programs), then pursue a Ph.D. in neuroscience
Why Augustana?
On National College Decision Day, something was calling me towards going to Augustana. Ultimately, the financial aid and tight-knit community drew me into choosing Augustana College. Every day, I am grateful I made this decision. I cannot explain my four years here as anything other than "more than I imagined."
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
No. Not even close. I came to Augustana with the intention of pursuing optometry or something clinical. I didn’t know what research was when I arrived on campus my first year. Now I can’t imagine pursuing anything else. Neuroscience research has provided me with an outlet for my curiosities. Being on the executive board of my sorority, Chi Omega Gamma, has given me confidence in leadership and in making executive decisions. I will leave campus much more confident and self-assured than when I entered.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My family, who have helped fund my education and provided support from over 100 miles away.
On campus, Dr. Ian Harrington has been an excellent mentor both in academics and in life. Dr. Shara Stough has shown me support and confidence in my assistant abilities. Dr. Rupa Gordon led me through my senior projects and through the intricacies of research. She’s been my role model in pursuing higher education and research.
The psychology/neuroscience faculty for their mentorship and support. To Kara Meyer, for your smiles and lovely conversations each day at work. To everyone who's participated in my research studies.
To the biology faculty (and my bio advisor, Dr. Scott Gehler), thank you for challenging me and showing me not to sweat the small, molecular-sized things.
Outside of academics, Chi Omega Gamma sorority has become a second family and my best friends. Sofia Garza has given me unwavering support and friendship. Bymin and my roommates, thank you all for everything.
Peak experience?
I have a few: presenting at the Midwest Psychological Association during my junior year, completing my research internship at the University of Iowa, and conducting an independent departmental Honors in Neuroscience project. All three of these experiences were equal parts challenging and rewarding. They individually showed me that my passions and aspirations are all tangible. These "peak experiences" gave me the confidence to continue researching and look towards higher education.
What surprised you?
Everything Augustana has offered me. Upon declaring a major in neuroscience, opportunities fell in my lap. I became a department assistant, conducted research for 2.5 years, mentored and tutored undergraduates and was recommended as the student representative for the Institutional Review Board. Augustana continues to surprise me with the support it pours into every student.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice to help pay rent while I was completing my research internship in Iowa City at the University of Iowa! This was my favorite experience in undergrad, and my Augie Choice allowed this to become a reality.
What will you miss the most?
The people. Every conversation I’ve had during my four years has truly impacted my experience. I will miss my mentors, my best friends, my sorority and all the acquaintances I’ve made along the way.
Advice for the Class of 2030?
You get out of this experience what you put into it. Go to CORE! If you’re unsure about your path, explore! Trial and error is scary, but so so rewarding. Some of the best experiences you’ll have are through the unexpected.
"Alyssa is a true neuroscientific researcher. Not only has she worked on multiple faculty-led projects and a summer research experience at the University of Iowa, but she also took the lead on her own independent Honors project with total confidence. She’s the kind of student who never stops asking "why," bringing a level of curiosity and thoughtfulness that pushes every idea further."