New MBP Students Excited For Research Opportunities

Current first-quarter students shared what appealed to them about Northwestern Engineering's Master of Biotechnology program (MBP) and how they think it will prepare them to achieve their professional goals.

The newest cohort of students in Northwestern Engineering's Master of Biotechnology program (MBP) arrived on campus in September and are already deep into their first quarter in the program. Before the quarter progressed too far, we wanted to check in with the students to find out what drew them to MBP and what they're most looking forward to for the rest of their time in the program. 

What was it about MBP that initially appealed to you?

"I was drawn to MBP because the program not only teaches students about the mathematical and scientific principles needed to be successful in the field of biotechnology, but also emphasizes the equally important principles of communication and critical thinking." — Caylee Silvers 

"I always enjoyed the conceptuality of biology and the more analytical side of chemistry and math, so I thought this program would be a perfect combination of my academic interests." — Megan Cunningham

"The program is well-tailored to the biotech industry in the real world. The curriculum provides broad yet succinct knowledge about the engineering, scientific, and business aspect of biotechnology. The courses have built-in classes for networking and professional development and the optional internship and six-month research experience give hands-on experience. The MBP program also has strong affiliations to different departments within Northwestern and companies outside the University. The various certifications and minors are also an added benefit." — Nilofar Khanbhai
 

What are you most looking forward to about your MBP experience?

"I am most looking forward to the opportunity to conduct research for an extended period of time. I think this experience will help me determine if pursuing a PhD is the correct route for me to take with my career." — Isaiah Richardson 

"I am looking forward to meeting and being challenged by such a diverse group of students with distinct backgrounds of majors, life experiences, and career paths." — Micaela Naibryf

"Working with the faculty and seizing the opportunity to connect with companies of all kinds within the biotechnology field." — Esther Nehmad Karasik

In what ways do you think MBP will prepare you for what you want to do professionally after graduation?

"I’ll have the opportunity to gain meaningful research project experience that will help me along my journey of pursuing an MD/PhD program. Biotechnology is essential to the new frontier of big data-enabled medicine, and this program will be my platform to enter this growing space." — Yesh Vempati

"MBP will provide me with the skills to work with bioreactors and allow me to apply my theoretical knowledge toward solving real-world problems." — Kevin Lerner

"Since I am from a non-biotechnology background, the bridging courses MBP offers have been a huge help. Mandatory research in the second year and the optional internship will give me a taste of what working in the field is really like. I feel MBP will help me get a thorough understanding of almost all aspects of biotechnology." — ​​Anusha Kamath

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