MBS Alum Returns to Present IndustryTalk on Swarm Robotics Technology

In his return to the Keck Graduate Institute (KGI) campus on Wednesday, Jan. 25, Jason Wang delivered an IndustryTalk presentation on swarm robotics technology.

As a 2016 Master of Business and Science (MBS) graduate, Wang jumped at the opportunity to give back to the institution that helped put him on the path to success. His journey featured a few twists and turns before he first enrolled at KGI in 2014, but while in Claremont, he developed relationships with faculty and industry leaders that produced career connections.

Wang’s family tree is loaded with physicians, but after graduating from UC Irvine in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in physics, Wang’s first attempt at medical school ended in rejection.

“It was an eye-opening experience,” Wang said. “It taught me that the world isn’t just black and white. A failure isn’t just a failure. You can rebuild to make yourself more productive and more successful later on in life. That rejection broke me into pieces, but KGI gave me the tools to build myself back up into a better individual.”

Wang started at KGI as a student in the Postbaccalaureate Premedical Certificate (PPC) program. He is grateful that the program’s administrative director, Joon Kim, and other PPC faculty members dedicated themselves to guiding and supporting student success.

“We’re all working toward the same goal in the PPC program,” Wang said. “All of the faculty want you to get into medical school. Each of the professors support you through the entire process.”

After accumulating extra credits in 2014-2015, Wang proceeded into the MBS program and earned a master’s degree in 2016. During his final year at KGI, the Team Master’s Project (TMP) stood out as one of the many highlights.

“The opportunity to connect with industry leaders is incredible,” Wang said. “I was able to interact with experts in the field while developing the ability to not only promote the presentation but also promote myself.”

In spring 2016, Director of Career Services Angela Cossey posted an internship opportunity with Apium Swarm Robotics. After learning more about the startup at an on-campus information session, Wang finalized the position even before commencement.

At Apium Swarm Robotics, Wang studies the application of swarm robotics technology to bacteriophages for treating bacterial infections. After sharing the findings with his Apium Swarm Robotics colleagues this month, Wang is once again pursuing the route of medical school.

For prospective postgraduate students searching for a next step, Wang suggests a visit to Claremont.

“KGI gives you exposure to so many different opportunities,” he said. “It shows you everything that is out there and helps you find a niche where you can apply your skills and thrive. It’s important to come in with that open mind of looking to improve the health of the patients.”

Wang tapped into KGI’s tools of innovation and discovery. Now he is prepared to become a leader in medicine.