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Why engineering?
To be perfectly honest, I kind of accidentally fell into engineering. I was always interested in biology, and a family friend mentioned it might be a better idea to major in biomedical engineering since it would provide a way to learn similar material in smaller classes. Little did I know what engineering entailed! But in retrospect, it's an accident that I am very glad happened. The Engineering School has provided much more than smaller classes — problem solving skills, unique opportunities such as the Science and Technology Policy Internship Program, and more.
Why engineering at U.Va.?
I loved U.Va. when I visited, and the biomedical engineering program was highly ranked with young, enthusiastic faculty in addition to an array of unique classes, include the year-long Integrated Design and Experimental Analysis lab that allows third-year students to delve into laboratory procedures, techniques, equipment and analysis that undergraduates often don't have the opportunity to experience.
What research and other activities have you done that are related to engineering?
I participated in the Engineering School's Science and Technology Policy Internship Program which sends engineering undergraduates to Washington D.C. Paris, and Richmond to work in science policy.
What is your favorite thing about the E-School?
My favorite thing is the Engineering School’s approach to problem-solving, beginning with the deceivingly simple question of "what is the problem?" In my first-year “Introduction to Engineering” textbook, a case study told the story of a building manager who, tired of hearing complaints from tenants about the slow elevator, called in a group of engineers to fix the problem. These engineers, upon determining there was nothing mechanically wrong with the elevator, suggested the manager put in some mirrors so elevator occupants would have something to do during the ride. The complaints ceased immediately – it turns out the problem was not a slow elevator but bored tenants. To me, this emphasis on defining the problem exemplifies the problem-solving skills that are the essence of what the E-School teaches its students.
What other activities do you participate in at U.Va.?
I am involved in the Hindu Students Council, University Guide Service, First-Year Seminar and Project SERVE. I was involved in the student newspaper, “The Cavalier Daily”, my first semester of my first year through the first semester of my third year.
What do you do for fun?
For fun I dance! (Indian Classical dance) And of course, I hang out with friends – going to movies, dinner, etc.
How do you think the E-School will help you after graduation?
Again, the problem-solving skills I've learned, along with the many different career paths and opportunities I've been exposed to, will serve me well in choosing a post-graduation path and following through with it.
What do you plan to do after graduation?
I plan to go to graduate school for a Masters in Public Health and then pursue a career in that field. |
