Peter DeMuth, Towson , Maryland
Major: Biochemistry and Chemical Engineering
High School: Loch Raven High, Towson

University Medal Winner for most outstanding graduate: Peter has a 4.0 average in his double major and does research with nanoparticles that may one day be used for drug therapy and diagnostic imaging. "You can fill these porous particles with a drug or imaging materials to be released only at the specific target, such as cancer cells or bacteria. It's been exciting to see results that are extraordinary," says Peter. "Peter is up there with the best I've ever taught," says his mentor, Professor Philip DeShong.

When he's not in the lab: Member, Navigators Christian Fellowship; Volunteers at Jacob's Well in Baltimore; Captain, Loch Raven varsity soccer team his senior year, went to 1A state semi-finals for first time in 25 years; played high school lacrosse; Won award for his Eagle Scout project refurbishing buildings at Hampton Mansion.

What's next: Off to MIT to begin PhD studies in bioengineering; "Bioengineering has the potential to revolutionize medicine as we know it."

About the University of Maryland : "I could not have had a better experience. My biggest dilemma was choosing between the sciences, I want to do it all. I was able to be involved in a developing interdisciplinary academic community here. There are infinite opportunities for undergraduate research, and the faculty is really involved in shaping your trajectory. It's been great."

Important influences: "God, my parents, fiancée, family, and friends... great math and science teachers in high school...the public school system and AP opportunities"

Last books read: The Great Bridge: The Epic Story of the Building of the Brooklyn Bridge; Undaunted Courage; Meriwether Lewis, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West

Life goals: "To be a good husband, father, and friend...to respect people...to have a good influence."

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