BME Graduate Student Council

The Biomedical Engineering Graduate Student Council (BME GSC) at the Hajim School of Engineering and Applied Sciences champions a mission centered on academic excellence, community engagement, and mentorship. The BME GSC supports graduate and undergraduate students within the Department of Biomedical Engineering (BME) and makes a meaningful impact in the greater Rochester area.

A group of students lounging on the quad on a sunny day.

Scholastic Excellence

The council is committed to enhancing the academic experience for BME graduate students by:

  • Hosting graduate student discussion panels on coursework, academic planning, and preliminary exam preparation for incoming graduate students
  • Acting as liaisons between students and the BME faculty to advocate for academic needs
  • Coordinating the Summer Seminar Series, where first- and second-year graduate students present their research to peers and faculty

Community Engagement

The council actively supports the Rochester community and strengthens student connections through planned social gatherings:

  • Partnering with local charities such as Ronald McDonald House, Golisano Children’s Hospital, and Foodlink for volunteer opportunities
  • Organizing monthly social events like SkyZone outings, holiday dinners, spring/summer picnics, and ski trips to promote wellness and connection among students

Mentorship and Outreach

The council’s mentoring initiatives aim to uplift the next generation of engineers and scientists:

  • Supporting the transition of incoming BME graduate students to academic and community life in Rochester
  • Mentoring undergraduate BME students in professional development, research skills, and career planning
  • Collaborating with the Kearns Center Upward Bound Program to mentor first-generation and income-eligible high school students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)

Meet the BME GSC Officers

BME GSC officers consist of two co-presidents: Kyle Jerreld and Emily Reitz; and two outreach chairs: Sergio Garcia Hernandez and Moses Arthur.

Contact the BME Graduate Student Council

Have questions or want to get involved? Contact the council at gsc.bme@gmail.com.