Name

Renee Pietsch

School

Mississippi State University

Degree Program

Second year Masters student in Biomedical Engineering

Previous Degrees

Bachelor of Science in Biology from Liberty University, 2009

Thesis Topic

Mechanical properties of muscle

Advisor

Lakiesha Williams

Advisor’s Research Focus

Finite element modeling

Hobbies

Civil War reenactment, riding horses, playing piano

Graduate School – Application Process

How did you select your graduate school and program?

I selected my masters degree program in biomedical engineering at Mississippi State University because it allowed me to incorporate my biology background with interests in physics and math. I originally entered college planning to teach high school biology, but I soon found that I was more interested in math and other types of science like physics. But I did not want to completely abandon biology, so I decided on biomedical engineering because it would involve both.

I selected Mississippi State University after I visited the campus. I first spoke with a professor from my undergraduate program about my new interest in biomedical engineering. He suggested that I visit the campus here at Mississippi State because he had recently given a talk on campus to a student organization and was impressed with the school. When I toured the campus, I found that people were quite friendly here and I liked the school. It also didn’t hurt that I was offered a good assistantship package once I was accepted.

What did you do to prepare yourself for graduate school?

To prepare myself for graduate school, I was very studious in my undergraduate program in order to compensate for my lack of research experience. Graduate programs value research experience in applicants. However, I was at a disadvantage because I had studied at a smaller university for my undergraduate degree and I had not had the opportunity to gain exposure or be published the way undergraduates from larger universities can. I probably did as much research as any other student, I just did not have the proof with my name in print.

So I tried to do as well as possible in my undergraduate program to highlight my strengths outside of research. I also chose my electives purposefully and with the intention that they would help prepare me for graduate study.

Did your application requirements include standardized test scores?

Yes, I had to submit test scores from the GRE exam. In order to prepare for the test, I bought a Kaplan prep book and used that to study. I first took a practice test from the book to use as a baseline and then I studied my weaker areas. I carried flashcards with me to help memorize words for the verbal portion, and I tried to develop little tricks to help me remember processes for the math portion.

What kind of information did you include in your personal statement?

For my personal statement, I wrote about my background and why I wanted to study biomedical engineering. I essentially tried to build a case for why I would be a good fit for the program despite having a biology background rather than an engineering background.

How did you choose faculty to approach for letters of recommendation?

For letters of recommendation, I approached faculty from my undergraduate program who knew me individually. I chose professors who could comment on my work and were able to evaluate me in-depth rather than just saying that I always showed up to class on time. I ended up asking the professor who recommended that I apply to Mississippi State University, and another professor who was like a mentor to me in the lab. I also asked a physics professor because I thought that would help to build my case for why I would make a good engineer.

Do you have any other tips for a student who is considering applying to graduate school in biomedical engineering?

If you are considering applying to graduate school in biomedical engineering, I recommend getting a comprehensive science foundation during your undergraduate program. Biomedical engineering incorporates a lot of biology and engineering, but also math and physics. You should definitely be comfortable with your engineering knowledge, but I also recommend taking a variety of other science classes.

Graduate School – The Program

How long is your program and how is the curriculum distributed?

My masters degree program in biomedical engineering takes 2 years to complete. There are 4 required classes and the rest of the coursework is composed of electives. I am required to complete a thesis, but I continue to take courses while working on it.

What is the focus of your masters degree research?

For my masters research, I am looking at the mechanical properties of muscle. I use pig muscle to test the compression and tension within the muscle fibers. I am analyzing the differences in the mechanical properties of the muscle tissue under various conditions.

Can you describe the process of researching for and writing your thesis?

I did not exactly choose my topic. I was assigned to it by my advisor, although I could have objected. Researching has been a difficult process. 80% of the work involved in research ends up not working out, and I spend a lot of time asking myself what I can do to make it work. I have had to compromise a lot to try and do what is feasible while still producing results.

What role does your advisor play in your education?

My advisor helps me to determine the best course of study for me. I meet with her about once a week and we discuss my progress, but she does not expect me to consult her on every little thing. She is there to answer my questions, and she guides me when I need her.

How does a masters degree program differ from undergraduate study?

The biggest difference between undergraduate study and studying at the masters level is the research. In my undergraduate study, coursework was the main focus. In my masters degree program, my classes are important but research is the real point of the program. That also means my masters degree program is more self-directed than my undergraduate study, because I am responsible for setting and meeting my own goals. I do not have a professor laying out a timeline for me, and I am responsible for staying motivated to follow my own timeline.

Graduate School – Paying for It

How much does your masters degree program cost?

I don’t know how much my masters degree program at Mississippi State University costs because I receive funding.

How are you funding your education?

My research assistantship completely covers my tuition. I also receive a small living stipend from the university as part of my funding package. I have to live carefully and share a place with a roommate, but I am able to get by on my living stipend.

Some students in my program seek out research fellowships and scholarships for additional funding, but I haven’t explored these options for myself.

Graduate School – Living Life

What are the time commitments for a masters degree in biomedical engineering?

The time commitment in my masters degree program varies from semester to semester, depending on the classes I am taking. I spend anywhere from 5 to 20 hours in classes. I usually spend about 20 hours conducting research for my assistantship, although some weeks I can spend as many as 40 hours on research. Sometimes I work on projects and homework in the evenings, but for the most part I am able to keep the evenings and weekends free for myself. All in all, I am not as busy in my masters program as I was during my undergraduate study.

How has graduate school affected your personal life?

Aside from the fact that I moved to a new state where I didn’t know anyone in order to attend Mississippi State University, graduate school has not had much effect on my personal life. It can be difficult for graduate students to connect socially because a lot of the work is independent, but I have been able to make some friends through my department and also through church.

Graduate School – After Graduation

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years, I hope to be finished with school. I think I would like to work in academia, as opposed to doing field research.

Are you planning on pursuing a PhD? If so, how are you preparing for the admissions process?

Yes, I am considering pursuing a PhD, since positions in academia require a doctorate. At this point, I am narrowing down my options and figuring out where I might like to go.

Graduate School - Advice

What insights can you offer a student who is interested in pursuing a masters degree in biomedical engineering?

If you are interested in pursuing a masters degree in biomedical engineering, I strongly suggest that you seek out as much research experience as possible. That will give you a chance to prepare for this type of study and also allow you to get a taste of what the program will be like. I wish I had done an internship where I could have gained more in-depth research experience.

In addition, you should also investigate any potential schools and look into their research. Your classes will work themselves out, but what really matters is the research projects you will be working on.