“I would like to apply my mathematics and engineering skills to study human-computer interactions or maybe artificial intelligence, using algorithmic approaches to solve problems,” she said.
Chen got a head start on her research during her undergraduate career. She worked closely with Associate Professor Habib Ammari, researching wireless sensor technology, which uses sensors to monitor physical and environmental conditions. Chen looked at ways to apply this technology to the health field.
But Chen didn’t just shine in the research lab; she also has been recognized for her success in the classroom. She was a recipient of the William J. Branstrom Freshman Prize, which recognizes freshman students in the top 5 percent of their class, and is an Honors Scholar for the College of Engineering and Computer Science.
She also landed a co-op at Michigan Infotech, a small technology institute specializing in bioinformatics and information technology training. Chen, who worked in the IT department, said she was inspired by those who sought to continue their education.
“There were people twice my age learning and keeping up with technology. Those who were continuing their education long after college were the people I really admired,” she said.
Chen, who is a first-generation American, said her parents encouraged her in her studies.
“My parents are immigrants from China,” she said. “Seeing how they’ve struggled but have continuously supported me is my greatest motivation. They’ve encouraged me pursue higher dreams. Without them, I wouldn’t be here.”
Chen said she hopes to provide the same support to others—especially other women in STEM—that her parents gave her. She worked with the Society of Women Engineers, served on the Michigan Council of Engineering and Technology, and is a member of Alpha Omega Epsilon, a professional engineering sorority where she does outreach work to promote STEM fields to high school women.
As part of her work with these groups, Chen encourages other women to pursue their dreams. And that’s advice she also intends to follow. Chen plans to earn her master’s degree at U-M Ann Arbor and then pursue a Ph.D.
“Education is empowering,” she said. “Through continuing my education, I hope to share what I have
learned to also empower those around me in the next chapter of my life.”
