Samuel Abakisi
Samuel Abakisi is a rising sophomore at Williams College pursuing a BA in Biology and Neuroscience. He is particularly interested in the intersection of medicine and scientific research and hopes to pursue a career through the MD/PhD pathway. His interests span neuroscience, epidemiology, and public health, with a focus on understanding how social, economic, and environmental factors influence health and disease outcomes. Samuel aims to leverage scientific research to improve disease treatment and advance public health. His fascination with the brain and its complex functions drives his interest in neuroscience and cognition.
As a SUMR scholar, Samuel works with Dr. Kyra O’Brien on research focused on mobile cognitive screening and memory care access. He assists with the collection and analysis of patient cognitive data by conducting cognitive tests, administering surveys, and performing functional rating assessments. Through this work, he contributes to the development of a mobile memory clinic screening model designed to expand access to cognitive care for patients.
At Williams College, Samuel serves on the Committee for Academic Integrity (CAI), a 12-member committee composed of faculty and students that upholds the college’s honor policies. He also works as a peer career advisor with the Williams College ’62 Center for Career Exploration and serves as secretary of the Williams African Students Association (WASO). In his free time, Samuel enjoys playing basketball.