Kaelin Martin is a first year Master's student at Catholic University of America. She is studying Biomedical Engineering / Specialization: Rehabilitation Engineering and is scheduled to graduate in May 2021.
Kaelin is working on the Microprocessor Knee Algorithm Challenge for QL+ Challenger, Peter Way. The goal of this Challenge is to enhance the algorithm of an Ottobock Microprocessor Knee in order to improve its movement based on the Challenger’s gait (how they walk).
Question & Answer
Why did you choose your major? I chose my major because I wanted to be able to advance research and development of biomedical technologies that help improve a person's quality of life.
Describe your experience working with QL+ so far. My experience working with QL+ has been wonderful. The research I am doing for my project allows me to explore different areas of engineering, and I enjoy working with a group of people who strive to help others, however way they can. The biggest challenge so far has been figuring out how to make my research work something that can be continued for future students who would like to do research on similar devices/challenges. The most rewarding part of this is being able to contribute to helping an individual who has served our country and knowing that we get to make this type of impact in their life by working with this organization.
What was it like working with your Challenger? Awesome. He was kind and always tries to make sure that I get the help that I need. I learned how important it was to be patient and understanding of different circumstances.
What would you say to other students about QL+? It is a great organization to work with, especially if you are passionate about helping others. The organization has a strong mission and have a team of people who believe in it so greatly. While the projects can be intimidating to work on, especially being a student with little to no real life engineering experience, the challenge is to be able to push you to greater heights, and the feeling of being able to help your Challenger is extremely rewarding
What are your plans after graduation? I plan to work full-time as a Biomedical Patent Examiner for the USPTO.
What has been the proudest moment of your college career? Being a co-author for a published journal article that talks about my undergraduate research on stroke rehabilitation robotics.
List three ways you have changed as a person, student, and future engineer since working on this project. As a student, I have learned to not be afraid of being more curious and to believe in my capacity with the experience and knowledge that I have at hand, as a future engineer, I have learned how to think outside of the box and be more resourceful, and as a person, I have learned to accept not having it all figured out as one, to trust the process, and that you can do anything you set your mind to, even if it has never been done before.
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