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Equipped to Lead and Succeed
Meet Adebisi Adeneye ’26
Dean's Scholarship Recipient
Where are you from and what is your background?
I’m originally from a small town in Los Angeles County, and I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Pure Mathematics at UC Riverside. While in college, I took a front-end development course and quickly fell in love with coding. Pairing that with my love for math, the move into data science felt like the most natural path for me.
Why did you apply for this graduate program and decide to study at USF?
My motivation to apply for the MSDS program is deeply personal. In 2021, I lost a close family member to sickle cell disease. As I learned more, I was struck by how under-researched this condition is compared to other genetic disorders, largely because it disproportionately affects African-Americans. Realizing that medical racism played a role in my family’s loss has fueled my determination to contribute to a more equitable healthcare system. I believe data and technology are powerful tools to close those gaps, especially when applied responsibly and creatively.
What excites me most about USF’s MSDS program is its emphasis on artificial intelligence and real-world applications. The opportunity to deepen my technical skills in AI while working on projects that tackle meaningful challenges aligns perfectly with my goal of using data science to improve healthcare outcomes. USF’s mission-driven approach and focus on ethical innovation make it the right place for me to turn a personal loss into lasting impact.
What impacts has the Dean's Scholarship had on your ability to further your studies?
The Dean’s Scholarship has had a significant impact on my ability to pursue this program. It has alleviated much of the financial stress and worry that often accompany graduate studies, allowing me to focus more fully on the demands of such a rigorous program. Knowing that I have this support gives me the peace of mind to dedicate my energy to learning, growing, and making the most of every opportunity in the program.
What are your career ambitions?
My long-term career ambition is to work in the healthcare technology industry, building data-driven tools that make healthcare more efficient, accessible, and equitable. I’m especially interested in how artificial intelligence can be applied to improve clinical decision-making, streamline hospital operations, and close gaps in patient care.
What excites me about this path is the chance to take rigorous technical skills and apply them to real-world problems that directly affect people’s lives. I envision myself contributing to innovative projects within a health-focused tech company or startup, and eventually taking on a leadership role where I can guide teams in developing solutions that are both impactful and ethical.
What is something unique or interesting about you?
I’m a proud first-generation American with Nigerian roots, and I love spending time outdoors. I especially love hiking, it’s my go-to way to clear my head and recharge. Living in San Francisco has been a dream for that reason, since I’m surrounded by some of the most gorgeous trails in the country. Whether it’s a quick weekend hike or discovering a new hidden path, I’m always down for an outdoor adventure.
Are You ELIGIBLE?
The Dean’s Scholarship recognizes a select group of incoming students in graduate programs, who the admission committees believe will make a substantial contribution to the programs. Recipients are selected based on merit. To be considered for the Dean's Scholarship, students must apply to their program by the program's priority deadline.
