William Stewart is in his second year of study with Duke University’s Master of Biostatistics program. Will’s hometown is Winston-Salem, NC. He graduated from Appalachian State University with a degree in Chemistry.
Did you work prior to enrolling in graduate school? What work did you do?
I worked for 4 years prior to returning to graduate school. I worked briefly in industry as a fermentation scientist and then as a chemist in an academic lab, where I studied the molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases.
What drew you to the field of Biostatistics?
While working in academic labs and hospital settings, I gained a curiosity for the analytical techniques that transform complex data into evidence that guides decisions. Following research threads on these topics led me to biostatistics. I realized that biostatistics provided me with a way to connect my scientific interests with methods that improve patient care. I was also very drawn to the interdisciplinary nature of biostatistics, as it allowed me to serve as a link between laboratory discovery and clinical practice.
What factored into your decision to attend Duke for graduate school?
I decided to attend Duke because it offers strong opportunities to engage in both applied and methodological research. I was drawn to the program’s training in statistical methodology and the chance to apply these tools to real-world clinical problems. That combination was exactly what I was looking for to grow as both a statistician and as a collaborator.
What have you enjoyed most about the MB program to this point in time?
I have really enjoyed the sense of community among my classmates and mentors. At Duke, the variety of backgrounds and perspectives creates an exceptional collaborative learning environment. Also, everyone has been so supportive and encouraging, which makes it easy to discuss goals openly and celebrate each other’s successes.
What has been the most impactful class so far?
BIOSTAT 704 (Statistical Theory and Methods II) has been especially impactful because it deepened my understanding of the theoretical foundations behind the statistical methods I use.
What has been the biggest challenge in the graduate school you’ve faced?
Learning to balance research and coursework has been very challenging because the expectations of you in both areas are higher. It took time to learn how to meet both demands simultaneously. However, finding that balance has been valuable in my growth.
Have you participated on a research project, or did you complete a summer internship? Please write a short description about where you were, the work you did, and what you learned.
I have had the opportunity to work on two research projects to date.
First, I worked on the secondary analysis of a clinical trial through the Duke Aging Center. In this experience, I worked with the study PI to refine analysis plans, selected modeling strategies aligned with clinical outcomes of interest and worked with Drs. Valerie Smith and Wenshan Yu to implement longitudinal mixed-effects models. I produced publication-ready reports and figures and communicated results to clinical collaborators. This work sharpened my ability to translate between clinical questions and statistical models.
Secondly, I have been working with Drs. Carly Brantner and Laine Thomas at the Duke Clinical Research Institute on a simulation study of generalizability, examining how inverse-probability sampling weights perform under target population misalignment. This project has strengthened my ability to present scientific findings and to tailor communication effectively to both statistical and applied audiences.
What are your goals after graduation?
After graduation, my goal is to pursue a PhD in biostatistics.
What do you like to do for fun or to relax after your schoolwork is caught up?
After my schoolwork is caught up, I like to go hiking, go to Duke games with friends, watch movies, and visit family.
What advice do you have for prospective or incoming students?
Duke is an environment designed for exploration. So, my advice is to find something that you find interesting, familiar or new, and pursue it enthusiastically. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes, because learning is an experiential process, and the most meaningful lessons will come from engaging deeply with material and diving into research.