Education
William Dhana – Florida State University News
“None of my opportunities would have been possible without my introduction to research at FSU, and they have shaped my long-term goal of integrating scientific research with medicine.”
Biological science student and Presidential Scholar William Dhana researches several cellular biological processes related to the mitigation and understanding of cancerous compounds.
His research on these compounds in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) inspired him to take his work and elevate it as a research fellow for the Johns Hopkins Institute for NanoBioTechnology and the National Cancer Institute.
Dhana wants to explore the interdisciplinary cross-section between medicine and cellular research to provide new insights on cancer prevention in the community.
At FSU, he combines his academics with service as a crew lead on the FSU Medical Response Unit (MRU). His unit provides a safety net on the FSU campus in case of medical emergencies, broadening his knowledge of medicine.
Why did you choose FSU?
When I interviewed for the Presidential Scholars Program, I immediately connected with the group of students I met, even before I knew whether I had received the scholarship. With hundreds of student organizations, FSU creates an environment where anyone can find a niche and continue growing.
Even in my final semester, I have continued to explore new communities. Becoming a Presidential Scholar only deepened that sense of belonging, and I have been incredibly grateful to be part of so many meaningful groups during my time at FSU.
What academic achievements are you most proud of?
During my time at FSU, I have had the opportunity to grow both as a researcher and as an advocate for undergraduate research. My journey began at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Tang Lab through the UROP. There, I worked on a project using specialized bacteria that mitigate cancerous chemical compounds in groundwater, which introduced me to experimental design and wet lab research.
Building on that foundation, I was accepted into the U.S. National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates program at the Johns Hopkins Institute for NanoBioTechnology. This program led to a publication titled “PanIN or IPMN?,” which explored the use of artificial intelligence to classify early-stage pancreatic cancer.
The following summer, I continued my research at the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland, where I studied a cell transporter that affects how well cancer drugs can reach the brain.
None of these opportunities would have been possible without my introduction to research at FSU, and they have shaped my long-term goal of integrating scientific research with medicine.
How do you serve the FSU community?
Outside of the classroom, I focused heavily on leadership and service through both emergency response and student advocacy.
As a crew lead in the MRU, I ensure that team members are well prepared to respond to medical situations on campus while also mentoring newer trainees as they develop their clinical skills.
As an Honors Colloquium Leader, I foster a supportive academic environment for those transitioning into the university.
My involvement in Student Government, particularly through the Student Council for Undergraduate Research and Creativity (SCURC) and now the Student Department of Academic Affairs, has allowed me to advocate for students on a broader scale. I worked on initiatives aimed at expanding access to research funding, improving educational affordability and strengthening academic resources.
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