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Isabelle Eskay is a firstÌýyear Biomedical Engineering (BME) Masters student conducting research in the lab of Dr. Debanjan Mukherjee and is a mid-fielder for the CU womens soccer team.Ìý To support the BME community, she has worked as a Course Assistant for the senior design capstone course for both the fall and spring semesters helping our current senior students.ÌýÌý

What brought you to the Â鶹ÊÓƵ and attracted you to the BME program?

My initial attraction to the Â鶹ÊÓƵ was through its soccer program. I did my undergraduate degree at ÌýThe George Washington University, in Washington, DC, where I played four years of division I soccer and majored in Biomedical Engineering. I had an extra year of eligibility and the opportunity to play at a different university. I was looking for somewhere with a competitive soccer team and a prestigious academic program. When I was recruited to play at Colorado, it seemed like the perfect fit. It offered something new and exciting in location, with a strong academic reputation in the engineering department. It was an opportunity I could not turn down.

What skills/knowledge doÌýyouÌýhope to gain during your Master’s program? What do you hope to pursue after you complete the program (career/academic wise)?

Throughout my Master’s program, I have gained knowledge in many different fields. I came into the program on the course-based track, with the goal of getting exposed to topics that I was not able to study in depth in my undergrad. Due to CU’s BME program, I have been able to take courses in a variety of different fields and broaden my expertise in BME. Post graduation, I hope to work in industry, specifically with medical devices. As of now, I hope to come back to school after a few years in the workforce to pursue a PhD. Hopefully, in that time I will find a specialized topic that I am passionate about and can continue my education.

What advice would you share with a student interested in studying biomedical engineering or your specific field?

Biomedical Engineering is a very broad field, that you can do many things with. If you are just getting starting with your degree, focus on building a strong foundation in your course work, while looking for hands-on experience though research, internships, etc. Try to stay updated on industry trends, network with your professor and mentors, and begin to consider specializations within the field. It can be daunting to narrow down your interests into one expertise, but take note of what you like in the field, and more importantly, what you don’t like. The possibilities are endless, but enjoy the process and stay motivated!

How would you like your work to help society?

I hope that through my career my work can contribute meaningfully to society by pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and technology. I aimÌýto provide solutions that not only address current medical issues, but also anticipate and adapt to the evolving needs of society. Ultimately, advancing the field and fostering aÌýhealthier, more sustainable future for our society.

What do you love best about attending CU Boulder?

Attending CU Boulder, has been absolutely amazing. Blending the exceptional athletic programs with top-notch academics, has afforded me an unparalleled experince.ÌýI have been integrated into a dynamic and collaborative environment that has inspired me to push my boundaries and strive for excellence in every endeavor. With this, the natural beauty of Colorado has been an incredible backdrop to my journey, especially being fromÌýthe east coat. From the beautiful hikes to learning the art of skiing, each moment has enriched my experience in ways I could not have imagined.