BioE Student Spotlight: Christie Ortega
Name:
Christie Ortega
Where are you from/where is your hometown?
Newark, NJ
What degree type are you pursuing?
MS Bioengineering
What is your specialization, OR, do you have any other majors/minors?
Biomaterials
Are you involved in any bioengineering related organizations (both inside or outside of Lehigh)? If so, please specify.
Christie is our Graduate Ambassador! She reaches out to prospective graduate students and meets with them to answer questions. Christie is also a student researcher in the Chow Lab.
Why did you decide to come to Lehigh University?
I did my undergrad at Lehigh in Materials Science and Engineering and loved the department which is where I met Dr. Lesley Chow. I ended up staying since I had the opportunity to work with her and her amazing lab. I also liked how supportive the bioengineering department was, especially Dr. Perry when I was asking millions of questions regarding the department.
Why did you decide to study bioengineering?
I wanted to learn more about how biomaterials are used in medical device field and learn more about tissue engineering which align with my career path.
What do you want to be/do after you graduate? How will this degree help you get there?
I want to be working in the R&D department as a product development engineer of medical devices such as catheters and have a particular interest in pediatric cardiac devices. This degree will and has already helped me in learning about about the different types of materials that are used in medical devices, how to go about developing a device, and assays to conduct in order to determine if a device is effective.
Share a good experience/memory with a faculty/staff member/peers/or class within bioengineering:
I really enjoyed the pool party at Dr. Perry's house; I will never forget that blueberry crumble pie.
Share a fun fact (or two, or three) about yourself!
I have over 60 succulents and I learned how to ride a bike in 2 days then immediately went on a 2 hour bike ride. I love road trips, recently road-tripped to Minnesota (16+ hours)!
What words of wisdom do you have for current or future students of bioengineering at Lehigh?
Pursue opportunities that get you out of your comfort zone such as presenting your work at conferences, or even at small events at Lehigh.