Meet our NSCS Scholar of the Week, Joshua Dawson! Joshua is a student at University of Washington where he majors in molecular cellular and developmental biology.
As a member of NSCS, Joshua loves being able to be a part of a society with high achievers that he can relate to. “My absolute favorite thing about NSCS is being a part of a cohort of scholars aspiring to change the world in an eclectic array of fields, while seeking leadership development. Upon joining this incredible community, I quickly discovered that NSCS scholars are world changers,” said Joshua.
“Even amidst a full STEM course load, I am motivated to continue to strive for academic, personal, and professional development simply by baring witness to thousands of other scholars around the nation, who too, are diligently working toward being their best self so that they can affect social change in their communities.”
Honoring all NSCS pillars of scholarship, leadership and service, Joshua dedicates his time to education, working on cancer research and volunteering in his community.
“As a NSCS scholar, I pursued undergraduate research in cell and molecular biology at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, contributed toward groundbreaking research, and have presented my findings across the nation from Long Beach to Washington D.C. I am now ready for what’s next to pursue my dream of becoming an MD/PhD to cure debilitating diseases like diabetes upon graduation this spring,” said Joshua. “I utilized my network of student leaders to address some complex issues faced by a public university and developed the King County Shadowing Program where I served as the Co-President of the Minority Association of Pre-Health Students for two consecutive years. I have also spearheaded the largest pre-health conference at UW, Redefine Healthcare, bringing exposure of healthcare professions to diverse high school, undergraduate and post-baccalaureate students from Seattle to the tri-cities.”
As a graduating senior, Joshua dates back to when he was a freshman, which prepared him for the opportunities that lay ahead of him in the future.
“As a freshman, I joined UW Leaders and participated in the Healthcare Alternative Spring Break where I shadowed doctors in rural healthcare settings. I shared my UW experience as the keynote speaker at the Gates Foundation’s Family Day promoting youth empowerment and was the feature student on the UW’s Conference of Champions TV special. I even volunteered at the inner-city Boys and Girls Club so that I could give middle school students a positive black role model pursuing STEM, which I didn’t have.”
For upholding all pillars of NSCS, being very active in his community, and being an inspirational NSCS Scholar, Joshua is our Scholar of the Week!
Want to be our next Scholar of the Week? Nominate yourself!