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William, a neuroscience and psychology double major with a minor in theater, is one of eight undergraduate students selected internationally for the scholarship. The award supports educational expenses for Psi Chi students.

For William, the scholarship is both financial support and recognition of the work she has pursued throughout her time at Lake Forest College.

“It’s like a recognition of me being a community leader, serving the school, serving the Psi Chi community,” William said.

Originally from Haiti, William is an international student and president of the College’s Psi Chi chapter. She also serves as a co-president of Synapse, a neuroscience organization that organizes events, professional development opportunities, and speakers for students interested in the field.

In addition to her leadership roles, William is conducting a senior thesis in the laboratory of her research adviser, Assistant Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience Hannah Carlson. Her research examines how prior alcohol exposure affects decision-making and inhibitory control, and how these changes may contribute to persistent alcohol-seeking behavior. Growing up in Haiti, she saw the effects alcohol use disorder could have on individuals and families and became interested in understanding addiction as a public health issue rather than simply a matter of individual choice.

“I want to encourage greater compassion and help people understand alcohol use disorder as a public health issue," she said.

Her research has provided extensive hands-on laboratory experience. During the summer, she conducted experiments, trained with laboratory animals, and learned research and surgical techniques. She said one of the most valuable aspects of the experience has been the independence she has gained while working closely with Carlson.

“I have had so many opportunities for hands-on learning, and working closely with Dr. Carlson has been especially valuable because she has been a great mentor,” William said.

Her decision to attend Lake Forest was influenced in part by the opportunity to work closely with faculty and conduct research as an undergraduate. When representatives from the College visited her high school, UWC Red Cross Nordic in Norway, William said she was drawn to the prospect of having direct access to professors, participating in research, and communicating science beyond the classroom.

“I wanted in my undergrad level to have a lot of experience in research,” she said. “This was the first step for me to become a scientist.”

That experience has included presenting her work at the Midwestern Psychological Association conference in Chicago. She has also had an abstract accepted for an upcoming international Society for Neuroscience conference, providing additional opportunities to share her research and connect with scientists and graduate students.

The Psi Chi scholarship will help William continue on that path while also giving her an opportunity to represent Lake Forest College on an international stage.

After graduation, William plans to pursue graduate study in behavioral neuroscience. She hopes to continue researching addiction, decision-making and behavior and eventually publish her work in the field.