Undergraduate Research Assistant in The Microsystems and Nanosystems Lab

Currently, I am working on a project in the Microsystems and Nanosystems Laboratory under the department of Mechanical Engineering. The project focuses on observing the effect of a change in membrane potential and flow of endothelial cells of a blood vessel system. This project allows me to apply both my engineering and medical coursework. By taking Physics II, I am able to understand the core equations used on my project, which involve voltage, potential, and current. By taking biology, I am able to more understand the way cells works.

In addition to this lab, I am involved in various major- related clubs that are listed in my resume, which is attached: \resume

Artifact 3

Above is a SolidWorks model of an AEV that my engineering team and I have created. Through engineering 1182 I have learned about how much can be represented through technology. Not only can we physically hold this model, but we can created parts to add to it. Specifically, one of my teammates created a SolidWorks part of a three blade propellor that we can get 3D printed for us.

 

Artifact 2

In the month of October, my floor was given the opportunity to participate in a painting lesson. This opportunity included learning how to look at a painting, trying to mimic it, but also getting creative in my own way along the way. Pictured at the bottom is my finished painting. While it did not look exactly like the teacher’s painting, it has the same style and looks pretty close. Participating in this opportunity taught me the importance changing steps to suit my own abilities. While I may be learning specific processes, it is important to know that they do no have to be followed through step by step and I can change things along the way to suit my needs more. Throughout college, I will be learning what studying methods, learning styles, and other things suit me.

Year in Review

During the 2018-2019 school year, I have grown as a researcher, volunteer, and student. As a researcher, I begin to start my own adaptation of a current project. This has pushed me to critically think and observe on small changes can have large affects. Additionally, the biology class I took in the fall semester allowed me to participate in a nationwide experiment involving bacteriophages. As a volunteer, I have grown to be more passionate about volunteering. As a college student, I am usually very busy. I initially viewed my weekly volunteering commitment as time spend away from schoolwork, that often stressed me out. However, this year, I have found that taking time out of my week to give back to my community is very relaxing. Seeing the positive impact I have made on other people’s lives has made a positive impact on my life. Lastly, as a student, I have found what coursework I enjoy. Usually, I see classes as a requirement rather than an opportunity to learn. Taking an anatomy class in the spring semester has made me enjoy learning. I learned how much I am interested in the human body and all of its functions. This has further motivated me to reach my goal: to become a doctor.

G.O.A.L.S.

One of my biggest goals for this year is to increase my global awareness and original inquiry. Since the summer of 2018, I have been a member of the Microsystems and Nanosystems Lab under the Mechanical Engineering department here at OSU. Through this experience, I have learned about my love for research. A specific program through the engineering department allows me to research while learning about the cultures of a new country. Therefore, one of my goals is to spend a paymaster abroad researching in China.

Another goal of mine for this school year is to challenge myself academically. I have already worked towards this goal by adding a minor to my degree of Economics. By adding this minor I am broadening the topics I am learning about, because an Econ minor is very different than my biomedical engineering major and pre- medical track.

 

 

 

Artifact 1

Below is a picture of my lab team. We are required to work together on all lab in my engineering 1881 class. While we may not be going into the same field, nor know the same background knowledge, we manage to work together in order to succeed. Being in this lab team has taught the expectations and responsibilities that accompany research in the field of engineering. Additionally it has taught me how a group of people can use each person’s strengths in order to succeed as a team.

Pictured from left to right are me, Max Ducette, John Paul White, and

Sydney lee.

 

About Me

Hey everyone! My name is Gurleen Vilkhu and I am currently a freshman. I am majoring in biomedical engineering and am a part of the Mount Leadership Scholars program. My hobbies include doodling and planning things ( I love my planner)! I am interested in participating in the STEM outreach program and interacting with students interested in the maths and sciences. I hope to also get involved with unique clubs such as the clean plate club and the ukulele club.