Anthropology student nominated for prestigious Goldwater Scholarship

Scholarships help by investing in the students who have the drive to pursue their dream degrees. Recognizing their hard work can make all the difference for their futures. 

That’s why Samantha Peterson’s dedication to her anthropology studies makes her a top nominee for the 2024 Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship.

The Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship Program is a nationally recognized program that supports highly qualified students pursuing careers in science, math, and engineering. Nominees are selected based on strong academic performance, involvement in research, and plans to pursue postgraduate degrees.

Samantha is drawn to all things research. Fascinated by the past, she is double majoring in anthropology and geology.

“I enjoy studying the sociology of people and learning about different cultures,” she says. “I love archaeology specifically for analyzing physical artifacts.”

Whether studying the collapse of ancient civilizations or digging for skulls, she loves to invest her time in learning what came before.

Along with classroom experience, Samantha has translated her work to the community. She’s led tours for MSUM’s Regional Science Center in Buffalo River State Park. Looking at the physical artifacts in the park helps her tell the stories of previous inhabitants.

Once she graduates, Samantha hopes to pursue a master’s degree in Vikings and medieval Norse studies at the University of Iceland.

The 2024 Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship winners will be announced in March.