I chose to study bioengineering because I really appreciated the
hands-on aspect of this field. From conducting lab work, tinkering
with electrical components, and working on my problem-solving
capabilities, bioengineering challenges me everyday, which I love!
I worked under Dr. Nagatomi and as an undergrad, I studied the effect
of a 3D environment and ECM protein coating on urothelial tissue
stratification in vitro. I chose to work with Dr. Nagatomi because
of the wide range of projects we have in his lab, and through the
last two years, I’ve had the opportunity to learn so much!
I believe Clemson and specifically the close-knit bioengineering department
have given me many opportunities for personal, professional,
and intellectual growth. I’ve definitely taken advantage of the
encouragement of many professors to expand our horizons and study
outside the classroom as well — I studied cancer stem cells at the
University of Tokyo thanks to Dr. Nagatomi and traveled to Tanzania
to learn about medical equipment in developing countries with
Dr. Dean and Dr. Desjardins! I’ve learned that my Clemson family is
found all over the world! Upon my return I plan on pursuing higher
education and a career in translational research.
All of this led to my year in Chengdu, China, as a United States
David L. Boren Fellow. Boren Awards are sponsored by the National
Security Education Program (NSEP), a major federal initiative
designed to build a broader and more qualified pool of U.S. citizens
with foreign language and international skills. My daily life usually
consists of attending Advanced Mandarin class in the mornings
and either a history/political science class in the afternoon,
my internship, or meeting with language partners.
I intern at a traditional Chinese medical clinic, learning about transcultural
health practices and the mix of Eastern and Western Medicine.
Chengdu is an amazing and growing city—some highlights have
been visiting the Panda Research Institute and seeing this year’s
group of baby pandas, trying authentic Sichuan hotpot (very spicy
but delicious!), and learning to make many famous Sichuan dishes.
Although I’ve been here for only two months (of an 11 month
program), I’ve already noticed that many of the skills I acquired
through Clemson have come in handy in China: problem-solving
in day-to-day life, communication (especially due to the language
barrier), and teaching locals a little bit about our healthcare system
in the US and technological advances.
