Rowan & Roots

What inspired you to pursue engineering as your major, and why did you choose Rowan University?

I have always been fascinated by how the human body operates and how engineering concepts can be derived from the complex systems within it. I also developed a strong interest in math in high school, so I chose a field that combines engineering and medicine. I found that the engineering clinics Rowan offers are a unique way to gain hands-on experience as early as freshman year, and the small faculty size allows for personalized mentorship.

What has been your favorite memory or moment so far within the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering?

My favorite memory is my visit to the Biomedical Engineering Society Conference in San Diego to present my clinic research. I went with my classmates, and the experience of sharing and receiving knowledge there was very fulfilling. California was also beautiful, and the weather was great at that time of year.

Is there a class, professor, or experience that has shaped your path or helped you find your niche?

The FDA Submission Bootcamp and Regulatory Affairs with Dr. Brewer and Dr. Mazzucco, respectively, played a huge role in helping me find my niche. In these classes, I learned about the process of getting a medical device through the FDA, as well as the theory behind what tests are required and why they are necessary. I believe these classes prepared me for my long-term goal of becoming an entrepreneur in the medical device industry.

What’s the most valuable skill you've developed in your program so far?

The most valuable skill my engineering degree has taught me is the ability to approach and solve problems effectively. I have also learned how to manage my time and prioritize tasks. All of these skills, and more, have created a mindset that applies to various aspects of my life.

Can you share a project you're especially proud of — from Engineering Clinic, coursework, or a personal build?

One project that I am especially proud of is my current research project, where we are working on engineering a biomaterial implant for damaged nerve tissue regeneration. The problem we are trying to solve affects thousands of people worldwide, and I am very proud that I am able to contribute to addressing it.

Have your academic or career interests changed since your first year? How so?

Yes. When I first came to college, I was fascinated by stem cells and cell engineering in general. However, as I learned more about the mechanics of human movement and the orthopedic side of the body, I realized that it had become more interesting to me, so I decided to specialize in that area.

Engineering with Impact

How do you see engineering making a difference in the world — and what part of that impact excites you most?

Engineers serve the community by solving some of its hardest problems. They use engineering principles and apply them to difficult challenges in the world. In my specific field, biomedical engineers use concepts from all engineering disciplines to create solutions for injuries and diseases in the human body. What excites me most about this is the endless possibilities and creativity we can use to do that effectively.

Are you involved in any student organizations, research labs, competitions, or campus jobs? How have these shaped your experience?

I have been involved in the executive boards of the Physics and Astronomy Club and the Biomedical Engineering Society for the past few years, up until the fall semester of my senior year. I am also an active member of the Muslim Student Association at Rowan. In addition to that, I hold three on-campus jobs: 1. Admissions Ambassador, where I give tours to prospective students; 2. Community Assistant, where I oversee residents and perform night shifts in the residence halls; and 3. Engineering Learning Community Coordinator, where I oversee mentors and help develop the mentorship curriculum. Finally, I conducted research at Beachley Fiber Lab with Dr. Beachley on a nerve graft project.

What advice would you give to future Rowan Engineering students who want to get involved, grow, and make an impact?

My biggest advice to future Rowan Engineering students is not to overthink the difficulty of engineering. You are going to have the opportunity to adapt well to the curriculum, and if you do so effectively, you will still have plenty of time to pursue other commitments.

Your Engineer’s Lens

What’s something in everyday life that you look at differently now that you’re studying engineering?

I now look differently at the way everyday products are designed and refined through small but important details, especially medical devices, because I find it fascinating how much engineering goes into making them functional and effective.

If you could design, invent, or improve anything — no limits — what would it be and why?

If I could design, invent, or improve anything, I would design the most effective biomaterial that could be implanted at any injury site and lead to full regeneration and functional recovery. I think this would be one of the most meaningful things to create because so many injuries and damaged tissues still cannot fully heal on their own. A material like this could help restore not just structure, but actual function, which would greatly improve quality of life for many people.

Quick Hits

First engineering-related experience at Rowan (clinic, club, job, or project): 3D Duplo project in first year Engineering clinic

Go-to drink or snack during late-night study sessions: Monster Coffee Drink

One engineering tool, app, or software you rely on most: Excel

Favorite spot to study or hang out on campus: Business Hall outside tables when the weather is nice

One word that describes your engineering mindset: Ambitious

“I want to be an engineer because… I want to make my younger self proud.”