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Hello! I hope everyone reading this is doing well. I am currently a sophomore at the University of Connecticut studying Biomedical Engineering. I am planning my future schedules and want advice in choosing a concentration and minor. My school requires BME majors to select a concentration. I am torn between the two concentrations; Biomechanics & Mechanobiology (first conc.) and Systems, Imaging, & Instrumentation (second conc.). I am also looking into minoring in Electronics and Systems, and most of the courses required to complete this minor overlap with the Systems, Imaging, & Instrumentation concentration. Electronics and systems has been something that I have been interested in for a while, so this pair is calling out to me the most as of late. This past summer, I participated in a practicum where I explored both bio-signals and biomechanics. During this practicum, I was able to build a 3D printed robotic hand while investigating various methods of body-machine interfacing for prosthetic control. Most of the work I focused on was working with flex sensors (which we made) and making things like an instrumentation amplifier, an active band pass, and full rectifier, which were used to make an electromyograph. This experience reignited my passions and curiosity for both biomechanics and bio-signals. This is why I am torn between both concentrations, and which to pair with minor I’m interested in. So, the options I have made for myself are; Biomechanics & Mechanobiology concentration paired with Electronics & Systems major OR Systems, Imaging, & Instrumentation paired with the Electronics & Systems major. I am also wondering on which pair would be the most beneficial for me in industry post-graduation. Any advice helps. Thank you in advance!

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Robert’s Answer

Hi Emily,
You’ve selected two great overall options and you have impressive experience. With my own background in Biomedical Engineering, the first thing that came to mind is HOW to choose? I know this sounds simplistic, but consider this: Picture in your mind that you already have the “perfect job” for you in Biomechanics & Mechanobiology. How would you feel about heading off to work in the morning to go to this job? Next, picture that you already have the “perfect job” for you in Systems, Imaging, & Instrumentation; how would you feel? Go for the one that makes you smile the most! Remember, no one is stopping you from switching career specialties later. I changed many times and was lucky enough to succeed, despite my concerns about switching. Regarding which pair would be the most beneficial after graduation, there are too many variables. Both areas offer promising futures. In general if you chose the option that you enjoy the most, it will pay off. Best of luck!
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Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer

Both concentration options have great benefits. If you choose Biomechanics & Mechanobiology with your Electronics & Systems major, you'll gain a unique mix of mechanical design and electronics. This is perfect for careers in prosthetics, rehabilitation engineering, or wearable devices, and it ties well with your experience in building a 3D-printed robotic hand and EMG system. These roles might be more specialized, but they are exciting and impactful.

On the other hand, the Systems, Imaging, & Instrumentation concentration also pairs well with the Electronics & Systems major. It focuses on electronics, sensors, and instrumentation, leading to careers in medical devices, diagnostics, and bio-signal processing. This path offers broader opportunities, especially with companies making wearable health devices and medical equipment. You could become a medical device engineer, instrumentation engineer, or imaging systems engineer. If you want to blend practical electronics skills with high industry demand and many career options, this concentration is a smart choice.
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