BioE Student Spotlight: Spring 2024
Name:
Joe Amitrano
Where are you from/where is your hometown?
Howell, NJ
What degree type are you pursuing?
PhD Bioengineering
What is your specialization, OR, do you have any other majors/minors?
Minor in Computer Science
Why did you decide to come to Lehigh University?
As an undergrad at Lehigh I had the opportunity to experience research in as well as industry work through internships. From those experiences, I fostered a love to discover more within the field. With positive mentoring from the Lehigh Bioengineering professors, I decided to pursue a PHD as I felt that was the right path for myself. I ultimately chose Lehigh because of the quality of research, the professors in the department, and culture.
Why did you decide to study bioengineering?
Since middle school, my mother had always shown me cutting-edge discovers within the field of medicine and bioengineering. Since then, I fell in love with the body and how it works.
What do you want to be/do after you graduate and how will this degree help you get there?
I would like to work in Research and Development or consult for biotech companies.
Share a good experience/memory with a faculty/staff member/peers/or class within bioengineering
In my last semester of undergraduate work, I pursued independent research under professor Perry that explored Graphene Oxides effect on MC3T3 cells seeded on a 3d sodium alginate scaffold. From this experience I was able to develop key skills such as practical lab skills, higher level questioning, autonomy and time management, as well as fostering good relationships between myself and others I collaborated with.
Share a fun fact (or two, or three) about yourself!
I am adopted from China and I have 2 dogs
What words of wisdom do you have for current or future students of bioengineering at Lehigh?
As cliche as it is, enjoy life outside of being a student at Lehigh. School is very stressful and having ways to escape from stressors is important to avoid being burnt out. 4 years seems like a lot but it goes by fast so, enjoy every moment and treasurer time with friends. College is a wonderful time of scholastic and personal growth and development.
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