Inspired instruction builds foundation for success

In their German studies and research, both scholars were mentored by Gregory Wolf, Dennis and Jean Bauman Professor in the Humanities and professor of German. Wolf encouraged them to study abroad at the University of Heidelberg, which played a significant role in their undergraduate experiences, they said. “North Central’s German program provides you with countless opportunities to expand your language and leadership skills,” said Peters.   

Adams has researched public policies related to economic development in both Germany and China. She received a Richter Grant to conduct research in China on education reforms––the foundation for her College Scholars honors thesis. She also researched the outcome of public policies following the fall of the Berlin Wall. “Dr. Wolf’s mentorship pushed me to ask deeper questions to understand Germany––from linguistic, cultural and historical contexts,” she said.

Adams followed in the footsteps of her father, George Adams ’89, who studied math and German at North Central and studied abroad in Bonn, Germany.

“Growing up, I loved my dad’s stories of German castles and enjoyed his homemade spaetzli (a German noodle). He inspired me to study German at North Central,” she said.

The German program played a significant role in Peters’ decision to enroll at North Central. “I sat in on a German class my junior year of high school and felt like I was a part of the class. It was clearly a tight-knit community and Dr. Wolf included me in the discussion,” said Peters.

At North Central, Peters assisted Stephen Maynard Caliendo, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and professor of political science, with his research on the evolution of educational rights in America. She also did research with Wolf on how German graphic novels address social issues of World War I.

She envisions a career in government—with a focus on either international affairs or international security—and would also like to earn a Ph.D. to teach at the college level.

While they wait for their Fulbright assignments, Adams is serving as a teacher at a public charter school in Wausau, Wis., and Peters is working as a marketing and communications intern at the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest, Inc.

To find out more about these and other great opportunities offered by North Central College, go to northcentralcollege.edu/apply.