Dean Wink of UW Whitewater: Geography with Geology, Volcanic Rocks Research, and Carnegie Hall.

Dean Wink of UW Whitewater: Geography with Geology, Volcanic Rocks Research, and Carnegie Hall.

Author: Venkat Raman January 17, 2025 Duration: 39:19

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I first spoke with Dean when he was a Sophomore at Whitewater.

Since then, his research experience has grown and  he has found his own research to pursue in the form of analyzing volcanic rocks from Iceland. This has not only equipped him with a number of skills, it has opened opportunities to pursue Grad School or  industry. 

Dean joins our podcast to share his undergraduate college journey at the University of Wisconsin Whitewater, Getting started with Research, Volcanic Rock Research, Summer Internships, Minoring in Music, Performing at Carnegie Hall, and Advice for High Schoolers.

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In particular, we discuss the following with him: 

  • UW Whitewater Experience
  • Volcano Rock Research
  • Geography Major
  • Advice to High Schoolers

Topics discussed in this episode:

  • Introduction to Dean Wink, UW Whitewater []
  • Hi Fives - Podcast Highlights []
  • Overall Whitewater Experience []
  • Starting Research []
  • Volcanic Research []
  • Research Impact []
  • Campus Activities []
  • Summers []
  • What Next? []
  • Minoring in Music []
  • Advice for High Schoolers []
  • Memories []

Our Guests: Dean Wink is studying Geography with a Geology emphasis, and Minoring in Music and Environmental Studies at the University of Wisconsin Whitewater.

Memorable Quote:The first time I think seeing my research abstract get accepted to present at the Geological Society of America was big for me. Now this conference is kind of like the big deal for us in the geology world.” Dean Wink.

Episode Transcript: Please visit Episode’s Transcript.

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Navigating the path from high school to college is filled with big questions and personal choices. College Matters. Alma Matters., hosted by Venkat Raman, offers a space for those stories, moving beyond dry advice to share real conversations. Each episode brings forward the voices of people who have been exactly where you are-alumni reflecting on their campus lives, faculty members discussing what they look for in students, admissions officers demystifying their process, and counselors offering grounded strategies. This isn't about a single formula for success; it's about hearing a diverse collection of journeys and practical insights that can help you shape your own. Tuning into this podcast feels like getting honest, thoughtful perspectives from a trusted mentor. The focus remains on authentic personal experiences, from the challenges of preparation to the transformative moments of actual college life. By presenting these narratives, the aim is to both inform and inspire, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of what lies ahead. For any student charting their course toward higher education, these conversations can be a valuable companion, offering clarity and encouragement for the road ahead.
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