Seven Questions with... Rachel Wan

What are you studying, why are you interested in this subject and what do you plan to do in the future?

I study Biomedical Engineering at the Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering. The idea of making a huge impact in transforming healthcare affirmed my interest in medical innovation and it is indeed something I would love to contribute to in the future. Problem solving has always interested me, especially when it comes to problems that are related to medical technology, as innovations in this field can lead to tangible improvements in the lives of many people. 

In terms of the future, to be honest I’m not very certain. I just know that I want to be part of a future which combines working with people and applying technological solutions to further progression. I am very open to different paths and careers as I believe that it’s okay to have multiple paths in life! 

What is the most interesting thing you’ve done, seen or got involved with while at UCL?

Probably working as the Outreach Officer for Engineers Without Borders. I learnt about Engineers without Borders (EWB) as an organisation back when I read a book for my personal statement. The organisation is all about inspiring the next generation of engineers to become globally responsible and aware of sustainability and climate change – an important problem to address in the current world.

I joined EWB in November last year as a Project Leader assisting other project leaders. The most rewarding part of my work is seeing young students being proud of their creations and engaged with the sessions. Knowing that I am making an impact leaves a good feeling, no matter how big or small. 

Have you discovered any hidden gems during your time at UCL?

Sign up for psychology subject pools! If you are interested in earning money during your free time, I would recommend signing up for the UCL Psychology subject pool. It is aimed at recruiting participants to take part in paid psychological research. They have a database of available experiments you can sign up to, and the best thing is that it’s paid! Payment ranges from 8 to 60 pounds, depending on how long or complicated the experiment is. It is very flexible and you can sign up or cancel a few days before the experiment. 

Give us your top three things to do/see/go to in London:

• Watch musicals – I highly recommend Six and &Juliet;
• Visit food markets – Spitalfields and Borough Market are great; and
• Sit in the Gower Street Waterstones with a cup of coffee while enjoying a good book in hand (TJR fans anyone?) 

What’s one thing you’d like to see in a post-COVID world?

I hope to see a world that is more inclusive, resilient and sustainable. Too many countries were affected by the external “side effects” of COVID-19, lacking good public healthcare systems, a strategy to reach net-zero by 2050, and a sustainable economy. I would love to see public investment in education, economy and low-carbon infrastructure. 

Who inspires you and why?

My parents – day in and day out. They encourage me to try new things and, when I am in doubt, always say there’s no harm in trying. They inspire me to live my life to the fullest and pave the path I dream of. 

What would it surprise people to know about you?

This is more of a fun fact: I walked up nine flights of stairs to go to maths class at Torrington Place – not a fun experience.