As an undergraduate, Olivia Willis conducts research in three labs on the WSU Pullman campus. A neuroscience and psychology double major, she just finished working with a transportation engineering group where she is conducting her thesis on the stereotypes students have about scientists. Olivia is on a pre-med track and plans to become a neurosurgeon or an emergency room physician!
Where are you from and where did you graduate high school?
I am from Deer Park, Washington, and went to Riverside High School. I am a senior pursuing dual degrees in neuroscience and psychology with a minor in French on a pre-med track.
What are some of your favorite hobbies?
One of my biggest hobbies is my research. I conduct research for three different labs and I am passionate about the different projects! I also love hiking, hanging out with my friends, playing ukulele, or playing with my kitten! I love activities that are stimulating or involve connecting with others.
What’s your favorite thing about WSU?
My favorite aspect of WSU is the school spirit. Whether it is yelling, “Go Cougs,” whenever I see other cougs or seeing everyone dressed in crimson and grey for Cougar football Saturdays, everyone at WSU loves being a Coug! This makes WSU unique and feel like a big family.
What’s your favorite course you’ve taken at WSU?
My favorite course that I have taken at WSU was Psych 265, Biopsychological Effects of Alcohol and Other Drugs, taught by Dr. Raymond Quock. I am very passionate about helping others and understanding the situations that they may be going through. This led me to work at a drug and addiction rehabilitation center for the summer and this class was extremely valuable to me during that time. The class helped me understand what the clients were going through and, overall, the class and job changed my view of the world!
What’s a unique fun fact about you?
I love vinyl records and have over 200 of them!