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Melissa CadenMelissa Cadena ’20

Biomedical Engineering
Laredo, TX

Melissa is the president of the Engineering Council, vice president of the Society of Women Engineers and a university relations officer for the Biomedical Engineering Society. As a biomedical engineering major, she’s already got a lot on her plate with her studies, but she still makes time to be involved in several student organizations.

Melissa decided to major in biomedical engineering in high school because she wanted to do something in the medical field, but didn’t want to go to school for the time that it takes to earn a doctorate. She wanted to help people in a way that is split between medical and engineering—as she also loves building things!

Melissa chose UTSA because Roadrunner runs in her family. Her brother is a UTSA alum and Melissa wanted to follow in his footsteps.

Last summer, Melissa did a research internship in Washington D.C. for the United States Navy. While there, she worked under a researcher in the chemistry division. “I had my own research project and attended conferences, which were networking hubs! It was an amazing experience and I plan on interning there again next summer.”

Melissa’s advice to Future Roadrunners is to get involved with student organizations because of all the people you’ll meet and the opportunities that will benefit you.

Melissa’s goal is to continue her education with grad school and to gain more experience in biomedical research. Last fall, she completed a research project under Dr. Ye in UTSA’s Department of Biomedical Engineering.

“We were doing research on a photonic crystal as a biosensor that could be used to identify a substance that grows inside tumors, which could play a key role in detecting cancer early on,” said Melissa. “I love doing research, especially when I know it will directly impact and help others!”

Read the full Fall 2018 RowdyZine.