Rachel Lian grew up in San Diego, but when she first visited the Triton campus, she was nonetheless delighted to find a place she felt she truly belonged. 

“Immediately when I started my first year, I met people who I wish I had known my whole life. Now, four years later, many of them are still my closest friends. The faculty and staff at UCSD are also incredibly dedicated and approachable. They have supported and mentored m every step of the way, and while this is something I can never fully repay, I am eternally grateful.”

Lian’s enthusiasm helped her thrive in a number of high-profile leadership capacities. She led the school’s chapter of the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) and served as co-president for Active Minds, an organization supporting student mental health.

In Lian’s experience, getting involved in the Triton engineering community provides access to opportunities that are not available elsewhere. “Everywhere you look, there is cutting-edge research that you can contribute to,” Lian said. “The robust research, especially in bioengineering, has allowed me to explore various projects improving and creating biomedical technologies. From using stem cells to study heart disease, to creating engineered heart tissues, to building a cyborg using brain organoids, these experiences have equipped me with problem-solving and technical skills and have helped prepare me for a future career in medicine.”

Rachel Lian is also a Jacobs School Scholar. Recipients of the Jacobs School Scholarship are selected for their academic achievement, demonstrated leadership, commitment to community, and innovative potential.