Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests at USC. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections. (250 word limit)
USC’s Biomedical Engineering program fits my personality and aspirations perfectly; I can say without a doubt it is my first choice major. I am drawn to biomedical engineering as it is an interdisciplinary study that incorporates many different fields in pursuit of cutting-edge healthcare. USC’s program specifically takes this interdisciplinary approach, building in mechanical and pre-med coursework (an advantage as I intend to enter medical school) and providing ample research opportunities for students. I saw this emphasis on research when I met Dr. Meng, Dr. Maarek, and Dr. Kay of BME in September. After attending Dr. Meng’s lecture, I appreciate the cutting edge research at USC and the collaboration with other institutions, an interconnectedness of scientific discovery that appeals to me.
Astronautical engineering is my second choice major and another field I find fascinating. Most appealing is USC’s hands-on approach, which I learned a lot about from Dr. Erwin when I attended his lecture. He spoke about USC’s rocket propulsion laboratory and their active research in rocket technologies, the Space Engineering Research Center’s work on nanosatellites and space instrumentation, and other intriguing projects involving plasmas in space.
One final appeal of Viterbi is the study abroad program as it allows engineering students to go aboard with faculty. I, too, would like to take my interests to different parts of the world, potentially through the Peace Corps or the Doctors Without Borders program.
These aspirations reflect my personality and the Trojan holistic view, one I would be honored to share.