Who is Ankith Rao? - Aspiring Medical Professional

Ankith Rao began his academic journey at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, a prestigious institution known for its strong emphasis on science and technology education. His early interest in STEM fields laid the foundation for his future academic and professional pursuits.

Undergraduate Studies at the University of Pittsburgh

In 2017, Ankith embarked on his undergraduate studies in Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh, a renowned research university located in the Greater Pittsburgh Area. The University of Pittsburgh is recognized for its significant contributions to the fields of engineering and medicine, making it an ideal environment for Ankith's academic development. During his time as an undergraduate student, Ankith engaged in various roles that showcased his commitment to research and education. He contributed to the Hemorheology, Hemodynamics & Artificial Blood Laboratory as an Undergraduate Research Assistant, where he analyzed red blood cell damage due to turbulent flow through left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). His involvement in creating blood flow loops and testing samples of various viscosities highlighted his practical skills and research capabilities.

Ankith also served as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant for several courses, including Biomedical Applications of Control and Cellular Biology. His responsibilities ranged from creating solutions for assignments to assisting students in laboratory sessions, demonstrating his dedication to supporting the academic success of his peers.

Professional Experience and Volunteer Work

Beyond the university setting, Ankith gained valuable professional experience at Bayer as a Systems Engineer, where he conducted verification and validation procedures for product lines and contributed to the development of next-generation medical devices. His work at PRIMA MEDICINE as a Medical Assistant further exemplified his interest in the medical field, providing him with hands-on experience in patient care.

Ankith's commitment to community service is evident through his volunteer work with the Boy Scouts of America, where he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, and the American Diversity Group, where he supported underserved communities and vaccination clinics.

Pursuing Osteopathic Medicine

In 2022, Ankith began his journey towards becoming a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, with a focus on osteopathic medicine/osteopathy. His academic interests in cardiovascular medicine, biomaterials, tissue engineering, and fluid biomechanics align with his career aspirations in the medical field.

Leadership and Extracurricular Activities

Ankith's leadership skills are highlighted through his roles as the Professional Development Chair of the Biomedical Engineering Society and the President and Beatboxer of Pittch Please A Capella. These positions reflect his ability to lead, organize, and contribute to the success of student organizations.

Ankith Rao's journey from a high school student with a passion for STEM to a medical student pursuing a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree exemplifies his dedication to his academic and professional goals. His diverse experiences in research, teaching, professional work, and volunteerism showcase his multifaceted talents and commitment to making a positive impact in the fields of bioengineering and medicine.