Biomedical and Electrical Engineering

“Let me tell you the secret that has led me to my goal: my strength lies solely in my tenacity.” Louis Pasteur
Tenacious some may say, or is it hardworking and resilient? These words describe a young man who double majored in Biomedical and Electrical Engineering at Florida International University(FIU) in Miami.
Tidjan Bernard Simpson is his given name and he is 24 years old. He did not land his first job just yet but his story is one to reckon with.

Tidjan always had a passion for revolutionary, innovative and life-saving changes in technology. He was always attracted to anything technological that could change a person’s way of thinking or their health. I am sure when one hears the term ‘Biomedical/Electrical Engineering’, the first thought may be, oh that seems difficult! Well, if this was your thought then you are right. This is a very difficult major that requires dedication, time, organization and an enormous amount of work. Tidjan never doubted that his journey to acquiring his degree would be an easy one but he was almost sure that this was the major that he always wanted to pursue.

Tidjan was born and raised in the Capital of Jamaica, Kingston. Home to Bob Marley, the world’s greatest reggae icon. Being an international student in the United States was a rather different but life-changing experience for him. He is an intelligent and eloquent young man.
Moving to the United States was one of the greatest experiences for him. When asked, what it is like being a person of color or a minority in his field? Tidjan response was beyond profound. He stated, “To be honest, that has not been a trait of my identity I thought about a lot. It can be for a variety of reasons. Growing up in Jamaica didn’t always evoke a strong sense of contemplation on the topic since the country prides itself on diversity and a large portion of the demographic is composed of people of color. Also, I always try to do my best to focus on things within my control.” In Jamaica, people are not segregated in groups because the country thrives on the mindset of the motto, ‘Out of Many One People,’ simply meaning diversity is key.

“Be the change that you wish to see in the world- Mahatma Gandhi.” Tidjan is that change. At an early age, he decided that he wanted to help people using technological innovations. His passion to study Biomedical/Electrical Engineering was fueled by lifestyle changes in society that were influenced by technological innovation. He said, “I feel ecstatic knowing just one major project can affect so many people.” What did he refer to as one major project? He is simply speaking about the creations of technological devices that aid in providing functionality today. He appreciates his field and he wears his title with pride. He said, “No doubt, I love what I have learned about Biomedical/Electrical Engineering. There is always something new to be excited about Quantum Computing and Nanotechnology.”

Memorable Experience: Serving time as Co-Overall Director for FIU Dance Marathon. It allowed me to combine my passion for leadership, dancing and community service.

Most challenging course: Electronics 1

Internships:
Cummins- Indianapolis, Indiana
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles- Detroit, Michigan
Anglo Orbe Summer Camp- Madrid, Spain

Tips/Advice: “Learn to get accustomed to always reading and improving your knowledge and skills. Staying up to date with the Engineering Industry is a vital part of the process of success. Everything comes down to experience. If you can't articulate to someone any meaningful work you've done, it's going to be harder to convince them to take you on as a team member.”

Tidjan believes that the only thing holding him back from his full potential is ‘himself’. As young professionals, at times we are tasked with responsibilities that are harder than we anticipated them to be. In these circumstances, we question ourselves if we are good enough or strong enough to handle the task at hand. But always remember, “Be patient and tough, someday this pain will be useful to you.”- Ovid.

Giving up is not an option for Tidjan because he knows that a lot of people invested their time and resources into his development and that has compelled him to never give up. This has helped him to develop persistence which has been a key factor in him completing his undergraduate degree. He believes studying at Florida International University in Miami has helped him to gain the relevant experience to his career path. He reiterates how important STEM career paths are important for having a tertiary or higher level Education.

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