Sebastian Arellano Esparza
Hometown
Marietta, GA
High School
South Cobb Highschool
Major
Biological engineering
Expected Graduation
Fall 2022
Sebastian (third from left) and his team developed a handheld diagnostic device to detect bacterial diseases for their Capstone Design project.
What is your favorite thing about being a student at UGA?
“My favorite thing about being a student at UGA is getting to know people from different walks of life and getting to know their story. The connections I have had with other students have had the greatest impact on my UGA experience.”
Why did you choose to study engineering?
“I chose biological engineering because I want to improve the healthcare system and its outreach to lower economic areas. I am interested in going into the medical device and pharmaceutical industry.”
What has been the greatest challenge you have faced while at UGA, and how did you overcome it?
“As an introverted person in nature, I struggled heavily with making meaningful connections with people. I challenged myself to talk to people in class, clubs, and networking event and be vulnerable to others in other to improve my confidence.”
What have you learned, or are learning, that has made a difference for you?
“I have learned to give different opportunities a chance and get experience doing so.”
What or who has helped you become a successful student here at UGA?
“My friends have helped me become a successful student at UGA through study sessions, encouragement, and networking.”
Sebastian works in a lab on campus, where his research focuses on creating a new diagnostic tool for COVID-19.
Can you describe the research you’re working on as an undergraduate?
“I am currently working on research to innovate a new diagnostic device for COVID-19 with a start-up company.”
Why did you choose this area of research?
“I chose this research because I am interested in working with medical devices. I wanted to understand the engineering design process behind a medical device.”
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
“My favorite spot on campus is Lake Herrick because it is calming and has a beautiful view. I am able to walk away from schoolwork and walk around when I need a break.”
What is your favorite restaurant in Athens?
“My favorite restaurant in Athens is Bubble Cafe because of their milk tea. It has been fun seeing this place grow in my time at UGA.”
What has been your favorite class at UGA?
“My favorite class at UGA was thermodynamics because of its applicability to real world situations.”
What has been your dest memory at UGA so far?
“My favorite memory from UGA is going to the national convention for the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. I got to meet people from all over the country and network with different companies.”
Sebastian and other members of the College of Engineering’s chapter of SHPE attending the organization’s Regional Leadership Development Conference in Atlanta.
What advice do you have for younger students who wish to pursue engineering?
“My advice to engineering students is to be engaged in the school and to form connections with professors by going to office hours. Always be open to available opportunities, you never know what connections professionals have.”
How do you hope to impact society with your engineering degree?
“Being in the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers in my undergrad, I hope to inspire more underrepresented communities with my biological engineering degree. It is important to me to serve back and aid in healthcare outreach to communities with little to no resources.”
