Q: Why did you decide to major in biomedical engineering?

Miller: My interest in the human body first began back in high school when I took AP Biology, where I became fascinated by human biology and how complex biological systems operate. Wanting to apply that passion toward solving real clinical challenges, I realized biomedical engineering was the perfect path, allowing me to combine biological science with engineering design to build impactful orthopedic solutions and medical devices.

Q: What has been your favorite course at UD so far?

Miller: My favorite course at UD has been BMEG111, the cell and tissue engineering lab. Getting hands-on experience working with cells was an eye-opening experience for me, and I gained invaluable technical skills like cell culturing and microscopy early in my academic career.

Q: How do you spend your time outside of class and research?

Miller: I love staying active by going to the gym, swimming and running or playing pickleball at the Newark Reservoir. I also enjoy shopping and going out with my awesome friends!

Q: What advice do you have for incoming first-year engineering students?

Miller: Don’t hesitate to reach out to professors and explore research or hands-on projects early in your college career! Also, be sure to attend as many office hours as you can. Get to know your professors so they can get to know you too. Engineering can be challenging, but building a supportive network of peers and finding mentors who align with your interests makes all the difference.

Q: In summer 2026, you conducted research in UD’s Hast Lab through the NIH-funded Delaware INBRE Summer Scholars Program. What drew you to this opportunity, and what was the most rewarding part of the experience?

Miller: I was drawn to the Delaware INBRE Summer Scholars Program by the opportunity to conduct high-impact undergraduate research in translational orthopaedics while utilizing professional development workshops to build my network. The most rewarding part of working in the Hast Lab was collaborating closely with faculty mentors, graduate researchers and my fellow undergrads. Contributing directly to bone regeneration research was an incredible learning experience that I will forever be grateful for.

Q: What new technical, research or professional skills did you gain through your summer research experience?

Miller: I gained hands-on experience in additive manufacturing, micro-CT scanning, 3D model processing using MeshLab, and cell culturing protocols for mechanical testing. On the professional side, I strengthened my technical communication, scientific presentation, and problem-solving skills through lab work and various summer workshops offered by INBRE.

Q: Has your experience in the Hast Lab changed or reinforced your career goals? If so, how?

Miller: My time in the Hast Lab reinforced my passion for working in orthopedics, biomaterials and medical device innovation. Seeing firsthand how additive manufacturing and biomechanical testing directly advance bone regeneration confirmed that I want to pursue a career in this industry, with a continued interest in prosthetics and implant design.