Congratulations to 2018 Engineering Achievement Award For Student Welfare Recipient, Meg LaRocca!

Meg LaRocca, graduating with a B.S. in Bioengineering, received the 2018 Engineering Achievement Award for Student Welfare, which is awarded to undergraduate and graduate engineering students who have made outstanding contributions to student welfare through participation in extracurricular activities and who have given outstanding service to the campus community.

What was your favorite class at UCLA and why?

My favorite class would have to be Bioengineering 120, Biomedical Transducers. The class covered the fundamentals of medical devices used in a hospital setting including X-Ray, CT, MRI, Ultrasound and more. I remember the feeling when I completed the mathematical derivation of how a CT scan worked. I appreciated how relevant the class was in the field of medicine.

What’s next for you after graduation? 

I am currently applying to medical school in hopes of becoming a physician. Though I am unsure of what type of doctor I want to be, I know my background in bioengineering will give me a unique perspective of medicine.

Your favorite UCLA memory?

This is a tough one. I truly have enjoyed every moment at UCLA from exciting moments at the Rose Bowl to exploring LA with some of my best friends. I would have to say my favorite UCLA memories would be the ones filled with spontaneity while growing amazing friendships.

Were you a part of any other clubs or student organizations? 

Apart from studying engineering, I also had the opportunity to be an Engineering Ambassador and hold the “Head of Tours” position. This included giving tours of the engineering school, volunteering at engineering-sponsored events, and coordinating large group tours. In addition, I volunteered with the Special Olympics program dedicating my Thursday nights and Saturday mornings to playing basketball with some awesome people. I was also a part of Greek life at UCLA as a member of the Alpha Phi fraternity.

What would you recommend for an incoming freshman who’s looking to find a niche on campus and get the most UCLA?

My piece of advice would definitely be – balance. Get involved with organizations both inside and outside engineering that interest you. College is your own experience, and there is no right or wrong way of doing it.