Meet Widnie Pierre-Louis
Senior Widnie Pierre-Louis is a School of Engineering biomedical engineering major, who is pursuing a minor in medical ethics and health policy at Rutgers Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, as well as a minor in health and society under the Rutgers School of Arts and Science Department of Sociology. Her current semester abroad at the University of Manchester supports these minors and her future career plans.
Why Rutgers?
Rutgers is a prestigious research institution with a vast student population, enabling interconnection among alumni, peers, and faculty. Moreover, the outstanding quality of education I have acquired and my anticipated post-graduation prospects related to tuition expenses make it one of the finest in the nation.
What drew you to biomedical engineering?
Biomedical engineering presents an ideal balance of healthcare and fundamental engineering principles. I’m deeply appreciative of the astute analytical thinking and solution-oriented approach of the latter, as well as the compassionate, human-centric emphasis of the former.
Have you been involved in any research?
I’m an alumna of the Aresty Research Program, where I dedicated two semesters to conducting theoretical research under the auspices of the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Throughout this endeavor, I contributed to the scientific community by publishing two articles in esteemed peer review journals: Database and Software Impacts.
What are you studying in England?
I’ll pursue my studies in the Department of Sociology and University College for Interdisciplinary Learning at the University of Manchester. At present, I’m focused on cultivating a diverse and comprehensive approach to analysis, which is crucial for my academic and professional growth. It will also supplement my minors in medical ethics and health policy.
Have you had any internships?
Most recently, I was a global facilities management intern at Merck, where my primary responsibilities included creating initiatives to support on-site safety, driving energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives, and using data visualization techniques.
Prior to that, I was privileged to work as an instructor in AI4All’s Columbia University chapter, where I introduced and demystified machine learning and artificial intelligence to high school students from underrepresented backgrounds.
What are your plans for the future?
I aspire to pursue a career in the intersection of information technology, human health, and business strategy, particularly in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries.
What advice do you have for future students?
Engineering demands discipline, humility, and a genuine eagerness to acquire knowledge and foster curiosity. I recommend that students incorporate their passions, hobbies, and interests outside of their chosen field of study to create a well-rounded and fulfilling academic journey. Above all, it’s vital to establish a strong network of faculty, trusted mentors, and like-minded peers to accompany you beyond graduation.
What three words best describe your SoE experience?
Transformative. Scholastic. Enlightening.
