Fernando Lima - Sao Paulo, Brazil
'I have chosen the Chemical and Biological Engineering Department because I like in particular the field of modeling, simulation, optimization and control of chemical and biological processes.'

'Professor Georgakis is starting a System Research Institute for Chemical and Biological Processes, which focuses on studying the behavior of chemical and biologic systems using mathematical tools. I selected my program for graduate work based upon the research group/school that could offer a good program in the specific field I liked, which is process control.'

Yongzhong (William) Wang - Shouyang, China
'I had an opportunity to work for a year on a ceramic material for potential tissue engineering application and thus was exposed to the field of biomaterials and tissue engineering. Very quickly I found that I fell in love with this new field, and in 2001 I applied and was granted admission to the Chemical and Biological Engineering program. I found that the interdisciplinary nature of this program best fits my interests.'

'I am amazed by Prof Kaplan's energy level - he is one of the hardest working professors I have ever seen. There are many things about Prof Kaplan that I appreciate. To list a few, he's always ready when I go to discuss my research with him. And when we discuss, he would never impose his ideas on me; instead, he always respects my ideas and thoughts and always gives me plenty of time to express them and discuss them with me. He's almost always on time, although he has so many things to do each day. I was surprised to receive his email on Thanksgiving Day telling me that he just finished reviewing my recent paper and will be ready to discuss with me on Monday as scheduled. He is sharp in research and directions, which I like the most. Another thing I personally enjoyed but had a hard time to adapt to was that almost every PhD student Prof. Kaplan is advising is involved in multiple projects, which would benefit the student by broadening their view and experience. These traits had a great influence on me, and it would not be exaggerating at all to say I have learned a lot from him during the last few years.'

Janelle Lavoie - Glen Cove, Maine
'I chose Tufts for several reasons, the first being the reputation that Tufts has for its engineering programs. I wanted to become part of a challenging program that offered many different opportunities for research. I liked the fact that the program presented prospects in both chemical and biological engineering. I had talked to a professor about the program and felt that he really treated me as a potential student and not just another number. I had also visited the campus and really enjoyed the beauty of its architecture and landscaping. The closeness of the city was also an enticing factor.'

'The department's focus on biological aspects and the integration of chemical and biological engineering made my decision.'

'I believe that at the end of my time here, I will develop important scientific laboratory and communication skills that will be beneficial in future endeavors.'