Dr. Joseph Abbas, a student in the Rutgers-Camden Preventive Science Program focused on international development, education reform, health care, and more, has a history of recognizing when and where support can make a difference.
A first-generation Nigerian orphan, Abbas earned a master’s degree in clinical psychology from the University of Jos and worked in customer service at First Bank of Nigeria before becoming a trauma expert at various NGOs across Africa. Build a career as a. For Abbas, the ability to do work that brings help and hope to others is what makes his studies at Rutgers-Camden so special.
“When I worked in the bank, I saw many people who went through crises, challenges and disasters,” Abbas said. “This inspired me to pursue assignments in various conflict zones, where I used my training in psychology to mediate the impact of conflict on civilians and soldiers.”
Mr. Abbas works in the Student Wellness Center on campus under the direction of Clinical and Health Educator Stacey Haynes. He is supervised by program director Daniel Hart and assistant professor of psychology Christine August. Abbas is researching the impact of social media health apps on student health. The project is titled “Exploring the Ripple Effect: The Power of Social Media Health Apps in the Wellness Journeys of Rutgers and Camden University Students.”
His academic research career has already resulted in five published academic papers, and Abbas will continue to advance his research in public health and preventive medicine by investigating how digital platforms influence students’ health choices. , aims to close gaps in health disparities, health promotion, and community-based interventions.
Abbas is currently investigating how established websites like Health E-Living.com influence students’ health choices. The Student Wellness Center is committed to using this site to help students monitor their overall health and well-being. Students can take assessments on topics such as eating habits, depression, anxiety, and alcohol consumption. Mr. Abbas is collecting data on student engagement and exploring digital paths on how the Student Wellness Center can most effectively reach students.
Mr. Abbas was awarded an $8,000 grant from Chancellor Antonio D. Tillis from Rutgers-Camden University to further his research.
“This prestigious recognition for Joseph highlights the potential of his research to significantly advance understanding and practice in preventive health care, especially among young adults,” Haynes said.
Abbas said he was inspired to attend Rutgers-Camden after reading about the prime minister’s “15 in 5” initiative. “I felt that the prime minister was a peacemaker,” Abbas said. “And the Preventive Science program at Rutgers-Camden was the best choice for me. I really realized how far I was capable and was deeply supported by my mentors, Dr. Hart and Dr. August. I feel that there is.”
Being awarded a grant from the Rutgers-Camden Chancellor comes with a certain amount of prestige. But graduate student Joseph Abbas said the award from Tillis was not about Abbas’ personal success. This recognition is based on his lifelong commitment to helping others.
“Joseph Abbas is one of the best people we have,” Tillis said. “He came to Rutgers-Camden to learn and grow, and we are thrilled to help him continue his humanitarian efforts in ways big and small that benefit each of us. ”
See how to apply for the President’s Grant.
