Why I Chose Biomedical Engineering - Rhea's Journey

Introduction

• Welcome back to Rhea's channel.
• If new, subscribe and like the video.
• Discussing why Rhea chose biomedical engineering as her college major.
• Attended Syracuse University, graduated in May 2020.

What is Biomedical Engineering?

• Also known as bioengineering or biological engineering.
• A very broad field with many subcategories.
• Definition: Application of engineering principles and design concepts to medicine and biology for healthcare purposes.
• Involves math, science, and problem-solving.

Areas of Focus

• Biomaterials
• Tissue Engineering
• Medical Imaging
• Biomedical Electronics
• Medical Devices (Rhea's specialty)
• Research, prosthetics, pharmaceuticals, artificial organs, educational research, etc.
• Many career options within the field.

Schooling for Biomedical Engineers

• Requires a bachelor's degree (4 years).
• Can pursue a master's or PhD for research or professor roles.
• Heavy focus on math, chemistry, biology, physics, and electrical engineering.

Reasons for Choosing Biomedical Engineering

Personal Reasons

• Family Health Challenges:
  • Father diagnosed with lung cancer.
  • Grandfather with Parkinson’s disease.
• Interest in medical field from a young age:
  • Wanted to be a surgeon, considered nursing and med school.
  • Decided against direct patient care and lengthy schooling for med school.
• Discovered biomedical engineering while researching medical field jobs.

Schooling Reasons

• Bachelor’s degree requires only 4 years:
  • Most other majors in medicine require at least a master’s.
• Interest in math and science classes:
  • Took many chemistry and math courses.
  • Physics was a challenge but manageable with career flexibility.
• Chose Syracuse University:
  • Dream school, great engineering program, close to home.

Professional Reasons

• Salary:
  • Good starting salary for a 4-year degree.
• **Job Market Growth: **
  • Field projected to grow 5% from 2019 to 2029.
  • Pandemic increased need for biomedical engineers.
• **Field Flexibility: **
  • Broad field allows for various job opportunities and career shifts.
  • Engineers valued for problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Conclusion

• Personal journey and passion led to choosing biomedical engineering.
• Encouragement for future biomedical engineers to explore the field.
• Open to sharing more about schooling, job search, and experiences.
• Call to action: Subscribe, like, and comment for more content.

Stay tuned for more videos and content!