About
Hello everyone! My name is Sama Khan, and I'm a junior studying Biomolecular Science from West Bloomfield, Michigan. I hope to become an oncologist in the future, and aid in improving the prevention rate and treatment plans for cancer diagnoses. I enjoy taking an active part in organizations such as the Pre-Surgical Club, where I am on the executive board as chair of the shadowing committee . I’m also the co-director of M-STEP (Medical School Training and Exploration Program) at the University of Michigan. Looking back at my freshman year, joining UROP was one of the best experiences I’ve had. Not only did I gain knowledge in the research process, but I also acquired hands-on experience in clinical cancer research within a month of starting college. My research project provided me with a deeper level of understanding in cancer research and preventative care while also furthering my passion for pursuing a career as an oncologist. I now work with my team in running two colon cancer research studies where the aim is to formulate blood tests to detect the presence of colorectal cancer, minimizing the use of more invasive techniques such as a colonoscopy. The creation of this blood test will help tremendously in improving the early detection and prevention rate of colorectal cancer. At the same time, it opens a door to under-resourced communities who can’t afford a colonoscopy exam, as they will be able to utilize this unique blood test that detects colorectal cancer. I’m so excited to teach the Health Science seminar for incoming UROP students, and hope to help students further establish their own interests by guiding them through the research process. After all, the world of research answers and furthers curiosity. Besides student organizations and working on the studies I run in my clinical research position, I have a love for classical music and have been playing piano since I was four years old. Growing up, I spent a lot of time playing piano competitively at the Michigan Music Festival. Additionally, I enjoy devoting time to volunteering in the pediatric unit at the hospital and at free clinics in under-resourced communities. There’s so much to learn regarding the practice of patient care simply by opening your eyes to the communities around you and listening to others. As a UROP Peer Facilitator in the Health Sciences, I’m looking forward to teaching and helping UROP students this upcoming academic year! I’m always available to talk, so please feel welcome to reach out to me at any time.
