Name: Abby Phillips
Major: Biosystems Engineering-Biomedicine Focus
Hometown: Ann Arbor, MI
On campus activities: Engineering Student Council President, Wildcat Pulling Team Secretary, Society of Women Engineers, ELLP Peer Mentor, Engineering Ambassador, Innovation Center Prototyping Guide, Undergraduate Research Assistant in the Advanced Diagnostics Lab
What led you to choose the Pigman College of Engineering?
I chose the Pigman College of Engineering because of the strong sense of community and support it offers. I love being able to recognize familiar faces around campus and build personal connections with faculty and staff. Having a reliable support system in engineering is vital for success, and I’m proud that PCOE embodies that. The collaborative and welcoming environment made it the ideal place for me to thrive.
What does your college experience mean to you?
My college experience represents an invaluable opportunity for academic and personal growth. It’s a time to explore engineering and medicine through diverse projects and experiences that fuel my passion for innovation. Beyond
academics, college has taught me the importance of developing interpersonal skills and participating in mentorship and collaboration. It’s about building connections that inspire me and contribute to the shared pursuit of knowledge and success.
How is the college preparing you for the future?
The college is preparing me for the future by offering a balance of academic rigor, hands-on research, and industry connections. Through coursework, I am gaining the expertise needed to address real-world engineering challenges. Research opportunities, such as developing a microfluidic chip for genomic analysis, have strengthened my practical problem-solving skills. The career and co-op office has been instrumental in connecting me with industry professionals and internship opportunities, guiding my decisions for future career paths and advanced degrees. Access to mentorship, experienced faculty, and collaborative projects has equipped me with critical leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.
Tell us about a person, program, or group that has made the greatest impact on you.
The Biosystems Engineering department has significantly impacted me by providing the flexibility and support I need to pursue my goals. This program has allowed me to explore various areas of bioengineering and develop a comprehensive skill set through its hands-on curriculum. My involvement in the Engineering Student Council has also been transformative, as I played a key role in establishing its foundation and initiatives, fostering a strong sense of community among engineering students while advocating for their needs. The close-knit, supportive atmosphere of both the department and the council has been invaluable, offering me a network where I can discuss my career aspirations and learn from peers and faculty who share my passions.
These experiences have greatly shaped my academic journey and reinforced my commitment to engineering and innovation.
Where do you see yourself in 15 years?
In 15 years, I see myself as a leader and innovator in the biotechnology industry, advancing healthcare and developing solutions that address the needs of underrepresented communities. I aspire to work on groundbreaking technological advancements while mentoring future engineers and scientists. Creating a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and drives meaningful change in biomedicine will be central to my career.
