Rowan & Roots

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

I transferred to Rowan for its intimate class sizes and the opportunity to work closely with expert faculty. Having studied engineering throughout high school, I wanted a program where I could merge my interests in innovation and medical technology. Rowan’s BME program was the clear choice to help me turn my passion for wellness into a career developing medical products.

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

Presenting research at the BMES national conference in Baltimore was a turning point for me. I watched my peers showcase incredible work in everything from regenerative medicine to medical device innovation, but the highlight was the university reception. Our room was filled with music, karaoke, and energy, and later became the most popular spot at the conference, outshining even the most prestigious institutions. This perfectly illustrates why I love the Rowan College of Engineering. We don't just produce high-level researchers, we build a vibrant, inclusive family that people naturally want to be a part of.

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

Dr. Dan Mazzucco’s Regulatory Strategies class was a great experience for me. Coming off a summer internship at Medline, this course provided the missing link between design and delivery. Learning about FDA regulations and market entry through the lens of Dr. Mazzucco’s industry experience solidified my niche in Class II medical device development. I was able to shift my focus from just building a product to understanding the entire ecosystem required to make it a reality.

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

I’ve learned that effective communication is the bridge between engineering and impact. Early on, I realized that technical talent alone isn't enough and that you have to be able to build a network. The opportunities I’ve had, from research to internships, were the result of the relationships I fostered with Rowan faculty. Developing the confidence to connect with people across different sectors has been the most versatile and valuable skill I developed.

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

I’m most proud of founding Assistive Technologies, a student organization dedicated to designing custom modifications and devices for the local disability community. Our first project involved rewiring a ride-on kids' car for a child with limited mobility, which required a village of collaboration across disciplines. Seeing that project transition from an idea to a life-changing tool for a child has been the highlight of my Rowan career, and I’m incredibly proud of the foundation we’ve built for future students.

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

Initially, I was drawn to high-complexity surgical technologies. However, after taking courses like Design for X and Regulatory Strategies, my focus shifted toward the intricacies of the product lifecycle. I discovered a passion for the 'simpler' products that have a massive daily impact on patient care. My internship at Medline solidified this, sparking an interest in Class II medical device development and the strategic, start-to-finish process of bringing a product to market.

Engineering with Impact

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

I believe that engineering is most powerful when paired with an entrepreneurial spirit. In the world of BME, we are developing the next generation of life-saving products. This intersection of innovation and impact is exactly where I want to be. I am incredibly excited by the chance to contribute to an industry that directly improves human health every single day. As a motivated student, I’m ready to see how far we can push the boundaries of what’s possible in medicine.

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

From founding the Assistive Technologies club to serving as VP of BMES, my campus involvement has focused on building community and driving innovation. Peer tutoring taught me the humility of the learning process, while the New Venture Expo and public speaking competitions gave me the tools to pitch technical ideas and develop my skills as an effective communicator. Collectively, these experiences have shaped me into a well-rounded engineer.

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

Don't be afraid to fill your plate with things that seemingly have nothing to do with engineering. Being well-rounded is exactly what made me a better engineer. My Business minor helped me understand the 'why' behind the products we build. Training for a triathlon taught me physical and mental endurance, and working at a wedding venue taught me how to be intentional in fast-paced environments. All these extra pieces of my college experience gave me a perspective my peers didn't have. I encourage students to lean into your varied passions because they won't distract you from your career, they’ll define it.

Your Engineer’s Lens

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

Engineering has turned my world into a series of design case studies. I find myself raving about things like the handle ergonomics and locking mechanisms on the new Owala water bottles. I no longer just use products, I analyze the intentionality behind them and look for that perfect intersection of mechanical efficiency and market-driven innovation.

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

I’d design a wearable bio-feedback system to help beginner athletes identify and prevent overuse injuries before they happen. Many people give up on fitness due to early injury or fatigue. I want to bridge that gap with a device that interprets your body’s limits for you, to turn recovery into a science rather than a guessing game.

Quick Hits

First engineering-related experience at Rowan (clinic, club, job, or project): Autonomous Vehicle Project (Sophomore Engineering Clinic)

Go-to drink or snack during late-night study sessions: Sparkling Ice Caffeinated Soda

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

Favorite spot to study or hang out on campus: Business Hall Study Rooms and Savitz Hall

One word that describes your engineering mindset: Explore.

“I want to be an engineer because… everything has room for improvement, and in medicine, even the smallest iteration can be the difference between a limitation and a life changed."