Purvi Patel

Purvi Patel is a senior in the Department of Biomedical Engineering. She is the president of the UB chapter of the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE), a national organization dedicated to the advancement of Asian heritage scientists and engineers in education and employment so that they can achieve their full career potential. The UB SASE chapter hosts professional development workshops and social events, and members attend regional conferences and engage in organization-wide networking opportunities.

Where are you from?

I am from Niagara Falls, NY.

Why did you choose to go into engineering?

I chose engineering because I enjoy being able to think logically and creatively. 

What do you like most about engineering at UB?

The School of Engineering and Applied Sciences is an excellent resource for students to find great career advice and research opportunities.

Tell us about your involvement in the Society of Asian Scientists & Engineers.

I joined the Society of Asian Scientists & Engineers my freshman year and have been a part of it since then. I wanted to be president in order to promote diversity and professional development in the field of STEM for the Asian community on campus.

What's your favorite part of being in the Society of Asian Scientists & Engineers (SASE)?

I have taken part in many events and my favorite memory would definitely be all the road trips I went on for conferences. These experiences have helped me build strong relationships with my peers and network with students from other chapters across the country.

Is there anything new or particularly exciting that your organization is doing?

We have started our own Discord server this semester where students can connect with SASE alum and current members, ask for career/ major advice, and simply have a platform to hang out and destress! 

What are you working on right now?

I am working to continually grow SASE, and connect SASE alumni with current members. I am also working as a chemistry technician at Fresenius Kabi USA, a pharmaceutical company that specializes in lifesaving medicines and technologies for infusion, transfusion and clinical nutrition. I perform quality control testing on drug samples that will be used for Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccines. 

Has there been a particular faculty or staff member that has been formative during your time at UB?

My senior advisor, Dr. Jun Xia has been the most helpful throughout my years at the university. Dr. Xia took me on board with his research project during my freshman year and helped develop my technical skills set. My experience in his lab made me interested in imaging technology which is something I hope to continue with in my professional career. 

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about helping people which is why I decided to pursue biomedical engineering.

What are your future plans?

Next year, I will be pursuing a Master’s of Science in Biomedical Engineering at the University at Buffalo while continuing to work full-time at Fresenius Kabi USA.

What is your advice for prospective students?

Don’t be afraid to start a conversation! Networking has helped me find research and a job so take advantage of every opportunity you get to connect with people. 

To learn more about the UB Chapter of the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers, contact ubsase@gmail.com.