Faces of BME - Jennifer Akaade
February 18, 2025
Jennifer Akaade, a Mastercard Scholar pursuing her MEng at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering, has built an impressive foundation in computer engineering. As the only female engineering student selected for a prestigious exchange program at UC Berkeley during her studies at Ashesi University, Jennifer participated in the Startup Semester at the Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology. Her achievements extend beyond academics—she was named a finalist in Harvard's Aspire Leaders Program and earned a scholarship through the Kufuor Scholars Program. Jennifer’s work on the Elise Journey healthcare app and her innovative efforts to tackle Ghana’s hospital bed shortage underscore her commitment to leveraging technology for social impact.
What inspired you to pursue a graduate degree in engineering, and what sparked your interest in the field of biomedical engineering?
I chose to pursue a graduate degree in engineering to enhance my technical expertise and to contribute to impactful innovations. My passion for biomedical engineering stems from a deep interest in merging technology and healthcare to address critical challenges, with a particular focus on improving health outcomes in underserved communities.
What previous achievements are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of graduating with First Class Honors in Computer Engineering for my undergraduate studies. This is an achievement that reflects my dedication to academic excellence and hard work. I’m also proud of co-leading a healthcare app startup during my exchange semester at the University of California, Berkeley, where I combined my passion for healthcare and technology to create impactful solutions. Additionally, having a research paper recently published in IEEE stands out as a significant milestone, showcasing my ability to contribute to the field of engineering through innovation and research.
As a Mastercard Scholar and an MEng student in biomedical engineering, what do you hope to gain from this degree, both academically and professionally?
I aim to gain advanced technical knowledge and hands-on experience in designing innovative solutions for healthcare challenges. Academically, I seek to deepen my understanding of medical technologies and regulations, while professionally, I hope to develop skills that prepare me for impactful roles in the biomedical industry—whether in research, entrepreneurship, or improving healthcare accessibility.
What advice would you give to younger students considering a career in engineering?
Stay curious, embrace challenges, and never be afraid to ask questions. Engineering is about solving real-world problems, so focus on building a strong foundation in math, science, and critical thinking. Explore different fields to find what excites you, and seek out hands-on experiences like internships or projects. Most importantly, believe in your ability to make an impact—engineering is a journey of continuous learning and innovation.
