Solomon Mesfin, Biomedical Engineering

Degrees
MS in Biomedical Engineering ('23)

Current Residence
Memphis, Tennessee

Current Employer
Medtronic

What influenced your decision to attend Herff College of Engineering?
I’ve always had a strong interest in engineering because I enjoy problem-solving and building innovative solutions. Studying engineering is a way for me to turn this passion into a career. I was particularly drawn to the Herff College of Engineering at the University of Memphis because of its strong reputation, experienced faculty, and the resources it provides, like state-of-the-art labs and research opportunities. I knew this would be the ideal place to develop my skills. Being in Memphis also offers unique advantages, from access to local engineering industries to a community of peers and mentors who are dedicated to making a difference.

How did Herff prepare you for your career?
The Herff College of Engineering provided hands-on learning through its advanced labs and project-based courses, which helped me develop practical skills essential for biomedical engineering. By the time I graduated, I had developed technical expertise and critical problem-solving skills, which prepared me to tackle complex challenges in biomedical engineering and make a difference in healthcare technology.

What skills or knowledge did you learn throughout the program that you found most helpful in your career?
Throughout the program, I developed strong technical skills in areas like biomechanics, bioinstrumentation, and medical imaging. Learning to analyze and interpret complex biological data became a cornerstone of my work, allowing me to develop effective solutions for medical applications. I also gained proficiency in tools like MATLAB and SolidWorks, along with other modeling and simulation software. These tools have been indispensable for designing and testing biomedical devices, helping me bring concepts to life in a safe and efficient way.

Who was your most impactful professor? Why?
My most impactful professor was undoubtedly Professor Amy Curry. As a transfer student and a non-native English speaker, I faced challenges not only academically but also in adjusting to a new environment without the support of close relatives. Professor Curry made everything seem easier, helping me feel welcomed and supported so I could fully concentrate on my studies. She provided insight on what to expect in my courses, shared advice for navigating college life, and encouraged me both academically and personally.

Beyond the curriculum, she offered guidance that helped me grow as a person, helping me bridge cultural differences and adapt to the new environment. Her mentorship and genuine kindness made a profound difference, allowing me to have the best college experience possible. I’m truly grateful for the impact she had on my life and career.

Were you involved in student groups? If so, which one(s)?
ABM program and BMS

What support(s) did you have during your time as a college student? How did you keep focused on the goal?
During my time in college, I relied on a combination of academic and personal support. Professor Amy Curry was incredibly influential, offering both academic guidance and personal encouragement that helped me adjust and stay motivated. My classmates were also a vital support system, especially during group projects where we could share ideas and help each other through challenges.

To stay focused on my goals, I set clear milestones for myself, breaking down my long-term objectives into manageable steps. I reminded myself of the bigger picture that how each assignment, exam, or project was part of building the career I wanted. Staying connected with my support network kept me motivated and grounded, especially during stressful times. This combination of personal determination and strong support from my community played a huge role in helping me stay on track and succeed.

What was your greatest memory from your time at Herff?
My greatest memory from my time at Herff was working on group projects, especially the project I completed with Professor Curry. Collaborating with classmates gave me the chance to learn from others, share ideas, and tackle real-world engineering challenges together. Working with Professor Curry was especially meaningful—she encouraged us to think creatively and approach problems with confidence. The project wasn’t just a great learning experience; it also helped me build strong friendships and a sense of belonging within the Herff community. Those experiences have stayed with me and have been instrumental in shaping my approach to teamwork and problem-solving.

What advice would you give those considering enrolling in Herff College of Engineering?
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about anything. Coming from Eritrea, I initially felt self-conscious about my English and uncertain about which facilities or resources I could access. However, I quickly learned that all I needed to do was speak up and interact with others. I realized that no one cared about my accent or language imperfections, and with each interaction, I grew more confident and comfortable expressing myself. This openness allowed me to connect with my peers and access the support and resources essential for my success. My advice to new students is simple: ask questions, engage openly, and take advantage of all the opportunities available. Everything you need will come your way once you start speaking up.

What do you know now that you wish you had known during your time at Herff?
Looking back, I wish I had known the importance of building connections early on. I focused so much on academics that I didn’t initially realize how valuable it was to network with peers, professors, and industry professionals. Building those relationships can open doors to mentorship, internships, and job opportunities. I also wish I had known just how many resources were available for support whether it was tutoring, career services, or even mental health resources. Being proactive about seeking help and building a network could have enriched my experience even more and eased some of the challenges along the way.

Was your Herff experience worth the price? If you could do it over again, what would you do differently?
It was worth it and if I was to do it over again then I wouldn’t change anything except change the timing where we were on corona virus lockdown.