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Current Activities: I am currently
working with Dr. Ken Gustafson to design and fabricate a portable,
take-home system that will restore urinary continence in persons
with spinal cord injuries via percutaneous electrical simulation
of the dorsal genital nerve. Many patients with spinal cord
injuries experience bladder over-activity which typically causes
leakage and related complications. Current treatments include
intermittent catheterization and medications, but these methods
often have undesirable side effects. Electrical stimulation has
been shown to be effective in suppressing involuntary bladder
contractions without the side effects of other treatments and
provides a promising alternative.
Last year, also with Dr. Gustafson, I used digital images of nerve
cross-sections to create a map of the fascicles in the human pudendal
nerve. In addition, I am a member of the Undergraduate Biomedical Engineering Society.
Why Case? The BME program at Case
provides undergraduate students with opportunities to get
involved with cutting-edge research. The chance to work alongside
graduate students and professors on innovative projects is an invaluable
educational experience. Real-world applications are the driving
force behind all engineering disciplines, and the Case BME program allows
undergraduate students to experience this aspect of the field that
cannot be taught in classrooms.
Advice for Applicants: In my opinion,
the most important things to look at when choosing a school are the people.
You will find libraries, classrooms, and dormitories on any campus, but
I have found that the unique community of students and professors is what
will truly shape your college experience. As a result, I can´t overemphasize
the benefits of visiting the schools that you are considering.
Tour the campus, set up a meeting with the head of a department, sit in
on some classes, and spend a day living with a current student so you can
get a feel for what the school is like on the inside. There are plenty
of great schools, so it´s important to choose a place where you can feel
at home and make the most of your college years.
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