Victoria

AddedSaturday, March 8, 2025 at 4:24 AM

I still don't know which biomedical route to pursue after undergraduate

I still have a year and a half left of my undergrad and knowing that biomedical engineering is very broad and there are so many routes to take and possibilities makes me even more confused. I'm pretty task-focused and my CliftonStrengths are Learner, Input, Achiever, Intellection, and Strategic. I'm very creative. I think I would want to do clinical engineering or R&D, tissue engineering or product design, but I've more experience in project management, leading teams and bigger-picture projects rather than the technical side of things. I'm unsure about this and would love some advice on how to choose!
Areas of Impact Medicine
  • Ying-Ja Chen , Pronutria
    Answered Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at 7:43 AM

    Biomedical engineering is broad and it's great that you already have some idea. Here are a few possibilities to try that may help you choose.

    First, you can do an internship at a medical device or biotech company in the upcoming summer or next year to gain more experience and observe how different functions in a company work together.

    Second, you can explore entrepreneurial activities. Many universities have courses, clubs, or events like "from idea to IPO" or "100k competition". Given your strength in strategic thinking and creativity, you may find it rewarding to join a team and try to startup a new company.

    Third, several big companies have talent development programs where you get to rotate at different departments within a company before choosing your final role. These programs may have different names, but it is a way to develop well-rounded managers of the future, because you will get exposure and understand perspectives from different departments. You may consider applying for these programs as your first job out of college and get more exposure to various functions before settling for a final fit.

    Even if you eventually choose to go into business, your engineering training and experience gained through these programs will prepare you as a great leader for the future!