Q: Why did you choose your major?

Clements: I really liked math in high school but was also interested in healthcare, so biomedical engineering seemed like a good fit. I also really liked the major’s focus on designing technologies to positively improve people’s lives.

Q: What was your favorite course or instructor?

Clements: Either Magnetic Resonance Imaging or Intro to Cognitive Science!

Q: Tell us about your experience with any extracurriculars outside of the classroom.

Clements: I was involved in Alpha Omega Epsilon, went on 2 UDaB trips, and was an Ambassador of Biomedical Engineering. I really enjoyed all of these activities and learned a lot from them!

Q: What was your favorite study location or hang-out spot on campus?

Clements: I liked to study in the computer lab at Smith Hall.

Q: What got you interested in the Grand Challenges Scholars Program (GCSP)?

Clements: It seemed like a great opportunity to learn more about real-world problems and how I could use my engineering education to address them! I also really liked the program’s focus on service and hands-on projects in addition to coursework.

Q: What additional projects, experiences or classes did you participate in as part of GCSP?

Clements: I did a senior thesis project in the Mechanical Neuroimaging Lab and interned at a women’s health medical device company. Through being involved in Alpha Omega Epsilon, I also planned an event for 50 high schoolers to learn about engineering. During my senior year, I also took a social entrepreneurship class.

Q: What advice do you have for anyone who is thinking about becoming a GCSP student?

Clements: My advice is to focus your time on what you feel passionate and excited about! If you aren’t sure what activities and projects you want to do yet, spend your freshman year trying new things to figure out what you like.