Sonia Merritt
Major/Department:
Biomedical Engineering
Research project or internship/co-op experience:
Co-op at Boston Scientific in Natick, MA; also worked on research projects through two programs, Research Experiences for Undergraduates and the Glenn Stokes Academic Year Internship.
Extracurricular interests:
Executive member of Undergraduate Student Government for two years; National Society of Black Engineers; Biomedical Engineering Society; Phi Mu sorority.
Biography:
In my free time I enjoy meeting new people and learning about cultures other than my own. Traveling to new places and sampling lots of different foods is always a great endeavor. When the weather permits, I like to play basketball and lacrosse. I am also an avid shoe collector and a fashion enthusiast.
Why did you choose to attend Case?:
I chose to attend Case based on its academic reputation for biomedical engineering, as well as its flexibility to combine disciplines. At other universities, I might have been admitted into the college of engineering, where a majority of my studies would have taken place; at Case I’m able to participate in the SAGES program [Case’s common curriculum], as well as take several classes in the College of Arts and Sciences.
What do you like best about Case?:
The best thing about Case is the focus it has on the students. There is a constant drive from the administration to improve all aspects of the school based on the feedback it gets from the students.
What do you do for fun on the weekends?:
My favorite Case memory is from last semester, when I helped coordinate a new philanthropy event called Hoop-a-palooza. It was the first time the Phi Mu chapter at Case had ever held the event, and this basketball-themed fundraiser helped raise over $1,000 for the Children's Miracle Network. It was an amazing experience!
Describe the best professor you've had at Case. What made him or her special?:
I have gotten to know faculty members through research projects. Last year, I worked under Dr. Mather in the macromolecular science department. Also, the Biomedical Engineering Society and Phi Mu regularly have social events that encourage students to interact with faculty outside of the classroom.
What do you plan to do after graduation, and how has Case helped you reach that goal?:
I plan to attend graduate school to pursue a degree in biomaterials. Case has prepared me well for any further studies I wish to pursue, as well as a successful career after graduation. My ultimate goal is to lead a team in the combined field of tissue engineering and materials science to create implantable biomaterials that expedite the body's natural healing process.
