Professor blows weather into classrooms, studios

Editor's Note: This is the first story in a weekly series profiling University instructors and professors. This story focuses on Samuel Perugini, an instructor of meteorology.

When Samuel Perugini walks into class, a warm front follows.

Simply known as "Sam," the instructor of meteorology and research assistant approaches the world of weather with spunk and flair.

"I try to keep a light and fun atmosphere in class by showing the students how interested I am in weather, and I try to get them interested as well," said Perugini, who has been a member of the faculty since Fall Semester 1994.

Associate Professor and Associate Head of the Department of Meteorology Hampton Shirer said Perugini, who teaches both Weather and Society (METEO 002) and Introductory Meteorology (METEO 003L), is well-liked by his students because of his eagerness and energy.

In addition, Chris Juckins (graduate-meteorology), who has observed and worked with Perugini, said the instructor is a good forecaster of weather conditions and is entertaining at the same time.

"He is able to put things in such a way so that you can understand him," he said, "and he puts them in a way so that you don't get bored."

Students enjoy Perugini's class because he gives the forecast at the start of each lecture, Shirer said.

Because he loves meteorology and has been studying it for years, Perugini, 28, said it was only natural for him to become a meteorology instructor.

Weather plays an instrumental role in everyone's daily lives, therefore Perugini said he tries to allow his students connect what he is teaching to real life. He said this not only helps students understand meteorology better, but it also allows them to take a greater interest in it.

- Sam Perugini, instructor of meteorology and research assistant

"It's a three-prong, multifaceted position," he said. "I get to play teacher, weather weenie and TV meteorologist everyday."

Professor of Meteorology Alistair Fraser said he thinks Perugini does well on Weather World and he likes his broadcasting style.

"As far as his ability to communicate well on the TV, he's good at it," Fraser said.

Perugini said the best part of his job is teaching others about his affection for weather.

"It's being able to take something that you know about, love and enjoy and communicate it to others," he said.

Besides his love of meteorology, Perugini has other interests.

"I like politics, cooking and, of course, my dog," he said. "I saw her peeping out of the pet store cage and I couldn't resist."

In addition, Perugini said he will marry his fiancee, Michelle, Aug. 8 and is looking forward to marriage.

"I've been ready," he said. "I'm not at all nervous."

Because weather is dynamic and unpredictable, Perugini said this winter will be interesting to watch and difficult to forecast.

"There will be times of snow and rain, and over the next six months, it will grow gradually warmer," he said. "That's one prediction you can count on."