In the weeks leading up to the 2026 commencement ceremonies for UVM's College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences Class of 2026, we will be sharing senior spotlights of some of our exceptional students from each CEMS program.

How did you choose your major?

My major is Biomedical Engineering. It is interesting because before starting my college applications, I had never even heard of this field. However, I came across it at exactly the right moment, and it turned out to be the perfect match for me. What drives me most in this field is my curiosity, and Biomedical Engineering gives me the freedom to explore a wide range of concepts and interdisciplinary areas. I also deeply value the humanitarian aspect of this field. Even though I may not always work directly with patients, I am motivated by the fact that the work I do contributes to advancing medicine and, most importantly, to making it more accessible to people around the world.

Did you choose to include a minor or certificates?

During my third year, I decided to add minors in Computer Science and Mathematics. I initially started taking classes to gain basic technical skills that would complement my major. However, I quickly developed a strong passion for coding, which motivated me to officially declare the minor. Through this experience, I have learned programming languages including Python, Java, R, and C++.

What extracurricular organizations and activities did you enjoy at UVM?

Since my first year at UVM, I have been a member of the International Student Club. This has been one of the spaces where I have felt most at home. Through this community, I met people from all over the world, built meaningful friendships, explored new places, and created unforgettable memories. Because of this experience, during my time as president, I was committed to fostering that same sense of belonging for other international and exchange students. Leaving home is already challenging, but leaving behind your country, family, culture, and even your food can be especially difficult. That is a feeling I understand deeply, and it can be hard to navigate without finding the right people and community, which is exactly what the International Student Club was for me.

In addition, I have been involved in other organizations such as Alianza de Latines, as well as honor societies including Tau Beta Pi, Mortar Board, Boulder Society, and the National Society of Leadership and Success. These experiences have helped me grow as both a leader and a community member throughout my time at UVM.

Do you have a memorable research experience from your time in CEMS?

One of the most memorable projects I worked on was an endoscopic carpal tunnel release tool with monopolar electrocautery, which I developed as part of my capstone project. This experience stood out because of the incredible mentorship from Dr. Seth Frenzen and the strong collaboration within my whole team. The project required not only technical skills such as CAD and SolidWorks, but also critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability. It was a truly comprehensive engineering experience that challenged me to grow in multiple ways.

Is there a class or professor who had a significant impact on your academic journey at UVM? 

Many professors have contributed to my academic growth, but two in particular have had a lasting impact on me. Professor Laura Marthaler, whom I met during my first semester at UVM, taught me Calculus I and II and later Data Structures and Algorithms. I also had the opportunity to work as a teaching assistant. Dr. David Jangraw, who taught Systems and Signals, gave me my first opportunity to work in a research lab at the Glass Brain Lab at UVM. Dr.Yuri Hudak, who has been a great mentor throughout this past year while working on my Capstone project. All three went beyond simply teaching course material. They genuinely cared about their students’ growth, well-being, and long-term success, which is something I deeply value and admire.

Alisson’s creativity, tenacity, natural ability to design, and eagerness to learn were demonstrated through her Senior BME Capstone project. On top of her talent, she’s also a pleasure to work with. I have no doubt that Alisson will excel wherever she decides to go next.

— Dr. Yuri Hudak
Director, Center for Biomedical Innovation

Has an internship helped to guide you on your career path?

Last summer, I had the opportunity to complete an internship at Yale University, where I worked in the Saxena Lab at the Wu Tsai Institute. During this experience, I worked with recurrent neural networks, building and training models to integrate cognitive decision making and motor execution. Before this internship, I was uncertain about whether I wanted to pursue a career in industry or research. This experience had a significant impact on me, as it clarified my interests and motivated me to pursue a research-focused path. As a result, I am now committed to applying to PhD programs in the near future.

Is there an achievement during your undergraduate years at UVM that you are particularly proud of?

One of my greatest achievements has been being recognized for both my leadership and academic dedication. Through this recognition, I have received several awards during my undergraduate years, which have served as reminders that I am on the right path. More importantly, being nominated or considered for these awards makes me proud, as it reflects that others see my effort and believe in my potential as well.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to work as a post graduate research assistant for one year to gain hands on experience in a wet lab setting. Following that, I intend to pursue a PhD, ideally in tissue engineering or cancer engineering, in a hybrid lab where I can integrate both computational and experimental approaches. My time in CEMS has prepared me by providing a strong interdisciplinary foundation, as well as opportunities to engage in both research and applied problem-solving.

How do you envision your future in the next five years?

In five years, I see myself close to completing my PhD, actively engaged in research, and continuing to grow both intellectually and personally. I envision myself working in a lab environment where I am constantly learning and expanding my knowledge in tissue engineering, while contributing to meaningful scientific advancements.

Is there any advice you would share with incoming first-year students?

Enjoy this stage of your life, because it is a unique experience that is difficult to replicate. There will always be another exam, another assignment, and another opportunity to improve. Do not let difficult courses or grades define your path. Only you can determine your direction and what truly matters to you.

Would you like to include any "shout-outs" to people who helped support you?

I would like to give a special thank you to the staff at the Mosaic Intercultural Center and the CEMS Office for the Advancement of Our Common Ground (formerly the Office of Equity Belonging at Student Engagement), especially Jaydeen Santos, KC Williams, Maria Nava, and Melissa Ochoa. Their support throughout my journey has meant so much to me. They helped make UVM feel like a second home and constantly reminded me that I also belong here.

Do you have any parting thoughts?

One of the most memorable experiences from my time at UVM was being part of the summer SESP program at the Mosaic Intercultural Center. This program not only helped prepare me for my college journey but also gave me a space where I felt comfortable and truly welcomed. It was also where I met some of my closest friends, friendships that I am confident will last a lifetime.

Another meaningful memory was during my second year, in my first core class, Biomechanics and Sensing. I remember going to office hours and finding many of my classmates there as well. We were all navigating one of our most challenging courses together, and spending long hours in class and working through difficulties side by side helped us build strong connections that have lasted to this day.