video interview
Sabrina
Year: Sophomore
Major: Bioengineering
College: Engineering (ENG)
One-on-One
What are your favorite places to study, hang out, and relax?
The Siebel Center and the Grainger Library are both great places to study. The buildings are beautiful and prove a relaxed and quiet environment. When the weather gets nice outt, I enjoy studying outside. Most people live on campus, so I hang out and relax at the dorms or someone’s apartment.
What clubs or organizations on campus are you involved with?
I started an after-hours, affordable tutoring service for students called H.O.P.E, Helping Other Providing Education, with all the proceeds going to Asha for Education, a charity providing education for underprivileged youth.
I also work in the student-run consulting firm, OTCR, Office for Technical Consulting Resources. We evaluate the challenges faced by a certain company and propose new solutions.
I’ve participated on the Outreach Committee of the Biomedical Engineering Society researching current developments in bioengineering to produce a video and then teaching four classes in the Chicago-land area about bioengineering. I also volunteer with I-Help painting a YMCCA and raking for the medically disabled.
Why and how did you choose your major?
When applying to Illinois, I was not sure what I wanted to do. I knew I was interested in both math and science so I chose bioengineering. By working with my research group, I found out more about the field of research and development. The experience opportunities Illinois has provided and the people I have met along the way has helped me to continue on with confidence that a career in bioengineering consulting is the right path for me.
Describe your most memorable experience at Illinois.
I remember as a freshmen getting lost and spending hours to find our way back to the dorms with my new friend. It’s really the best way to get to know the campus.
What is your advice to prospective students?
It's up to you to take advantage of the great academic opportunities. Illinois can seem like a huge place, so dig up the confidence to talk to new people and don’t be afraid to ask questions. You’re here to learn inside and outside the classroom so make the most of your time here. Embrace the diversity of people, organizations, and choices and take this time to find your passions.
Video Interview
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