Peer Leaders are undergraduate students who support their peers in WISCIENCE programs and courses while learning valuable leadership skills. Find out more about Samik!
Pronouns: He/Him
Major: Biology
Peer Leader for: STEM Engagement
Hometown: Woodbury, MN
If you could choose anyone for a mentor, who would it be?
Sadhguru
What is your favorite place on campus?
The Memorial Library cages on the fifth floor, I have had some legendary study sessions in there.
What do you like most about Madison?
I love the architecture on campus and its location within Madison, but the food around campus is top-notch. I have spent way too much money eating out at all the delicious restaurants around campus, and probably will continue to!
What are your favorite snacks for a study session?
I just love a cold bottle of Diet Coke. Something about that drink gives me the motivation and drive to study for ages! A giant bag of Nerd’s Gummy Clusters is reserved for finals.
If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
I would want to be an eagle because walking is such a chore. Flying anywhere I want sounds awesome, saves a lot of time, and eagles are the coolest!
What is an academic accomplishment that you are proud of?
I have maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout college, despite heavy course loads, research, working at the hospital, and extracurriculars. I will also be graduating early in a little over two years!
What sparked your interest in STEM?
I used to be obsessed with astronomy as a kid, and that dream to study outer space translated into a love for all sciences as I grew up.
What is your vision for life after graduation?
I want to be a medical student at a great medical school after a gap year!
What advice would you give a friend considering becoming a peer leader?
I would treat every peer that you are advising basically as a friend. A peer leader is special because they are equals, in age and status (as students), with those they are advising. Take full advantage of that to make the spaces you are peer leading in more welcoming while still being a resource!
What have you learned through your experience of being a peer leader?
Because of the variety of students I have met, I have learnt that a lot of struggles in college that you believe are unique to yourself usually are not. You are never alone and people will always be there to support you!
Meet the rest of the WISCIENCE Peer Leaders.
Learn more about the WISCIENCE Peer Leader program.