For a long time, Jai Raccioppi has wanted to make a positive difference in the world. Studying Biomedical Engineering at Stevenson University has allowed Jai to work toward that goal. His groundbreaking research may help improve the lives of people suffering from traumatic brain injuries or brain diseases, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Since finishing his undergraduate degree, Jai has continued his research as a Ph.D. student in the Biomedical Engineering program at the University of Florida.
“Stevenson has prepared me perfectly for my next step,” Jai said. “I have spent all four years as a student-athlete heavily involved with many extracurriculars to perfect my time management skills, which is arguably the most challenging aspect in the transition from undergraduate to graduate studies. I believe the faculty in the Biomedical Engineering department were an essential component of my success in graduate admissions, as they helped strengthen my application package and wrote strong letters of recommendation.”
Student, Athlete, and Active Community Member
Throughout his time at Stevenson, Jai has been heavily involved with campus life. He has participated in athletics as a member of the Men’s Track and Field team, including holding a team leadership position, and served as a team representative to the University’s Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).
Jai has also been an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), Black Student Union (BSU), Men’s Bible Study Club, Leadership Scholars, and the Kappa Mu Epsilon (KME) National Mathematical Honors Society.
“My favorite memory of my time at Stevenson must be getting inducted into Kappa Mu Epsilon (KME) National Mathematics Honor Society,” Jai said. “I have always enjoyed math, so I found additional pleasure in being inducted into KME. I also have countless memories from the lifelong friends I have made during my time at Stevenson.”
Building a Foundation for the Future
Jai has taken advantage of Stevenson’s commitment to connecting students to their careers to build a strong foundation for his future. In addition to his coursework, Jai has conducted research alongside the Biomedical Engineering faculty and presented at regional and national conferences.
“I am most proud of my research progression,” Jai said. “In a year, I assisted in and conducted research in two different labs, presenting at three regional and two national conferences. I even received a full travel award that covered my flight, hotel, and conference fees.”
Gaining Applicable Experience in the Workforce
Like all Stevenson students, Jai took part in experiential learning. In his case, Jai participated in two internships.
“My first internship was at AstraZeneca, a pharmaceutical company, where I learned how to create effective standard operating procedures (SOPs),” Jai said. “My second internship was research based in the Neural Interface and Modeling Lab at the University of Southern California through the Viterbi Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) program sponsored by Amazon. At the USC internship, I researched neural modulation, specifically how transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) affects spatial learning and memory in rats.”
Jai’s Advice to New Stevenson University Students
“The biggest struggle in the transition between high school and college is knowing how to manage your time effectively. I encourage incoming freshmen to find the method that works for them, as it differs for everyone. This will tremendously help you in the long run.”
