What first got you interested in your field of choice?

I pursued engineering because I enjoy designing, building things, and helping people. After graduating from USC, I realized that I could maximize the number of people I could help through medical device engineering (MDE). And as I learned more about MDE, I found that diagnostic devices satisfied all of the things I love about engineering.

What type of obstacles have you had to overcome on the road to getting your education?

The main obstacles I am still trying to overcome are Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 1, several learning disabilities, and ADHD. A welcome compensation to the extensive testing, tutoring, life coaching, and problems finding the right school and major, which I endured, was to learn that I am gifted in the area of spatial recognition.

How did you know that KGI was the right school for you?

I knew KGI was the right school for me when I participated in a campus visit day event. I liked how the campus décor reflected a mix of corporate interests and science highlighting KGI’s mission and as I toured the school, I imagined myself attending classes and practicing technical skills in the MAD laboratory. This was reinforced during the Medical Device Development Bootcamp (Summer 2021) where I was mentored by Dr. Travis Schlappi. My team was tasked with designing a microfluidic point-of-care UTI diagnostic device. Upon completion of the Bootcamp, I had found a home at KGI and in the Schlappi lab.

Why did you want to become an Admissions Ambassador?

I wanted to become an admissions ambassador because of my inspiring experience with two ambassadors who helped me throughout my application process to KGI. After starting my first semester, this desire grew as I realized that the KGI experience was even better than I had originally thought.

What is one fun and interesting fact about you?

A fun fact about me is that I enjoy developing original and copy-cat recipes as well as combing recipes because it is like recipe roulette—you never know how it’s going to turn out! An interesting fact about me is that my right thumb looks like a toe.