Building friendships and future success
Materials science and engineering and biomedical engineering major Jared Cohen found that making time for friends and taking on leadership roles in student organizations has contributed to both the fun and success he is having at Carnegie Mellon.
Source: Jared Cohen
Jared Cohen
On Friday nights, Jared Cohen gathers with fellow CMU students to celebrate Shabbat—the Jewish tradition of sharing a meal that commemorates the day God rested from creating the world.
In much the same way, the class of 2023 materials science and engineering and biomedical engineering major welcomes the rest, as well as the fellowship, after a week of rigorous coursework and lab duties.
“I don’t want to be so overwhelmed with responsibility that I can’t enjoy the entire college experience,” said Cohen.
Although he had wanted to graduate early and move on quickly to graduate school, Cohen listened to his advisor Kurt Larsen, assistant dean for undergraduate studies, who advised him not to overdo it, especially when taking the challenging first-year engineering courses.
That new approach has served him well. Even though being more selective about the many exciting electives CMU offers can be difficult, Cohen is glad he has made time to pursue other opportunities. Last summer he interned with Lost Tribe E-Sports, and he has helped conduct biomedical research in the labs of Christopher Bettinger, professor of materials science and engineering and biomedical engineering, and Charlie Ren, assistant professor of biomedical engineering.
“I learned to manipulate cells, design with CAD software, and operate 3D printers. The hands-on work helped me better understand the underlying biology,” said Cohen. “Doing is what really pushes me.”
For Cohen, there have been other benefits to balancing the many options he has. He serves as vice president and recruitment chair of the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity, is actively involved with the Hillel Jewish Students Association, and is co-president of the Materials Science and Engineering Advisory Committee.
The leadership roles in these student organizations can be demanding, but I have made so many great friends. Serving these groups has taught me valuable skills that will contribute to my success.
Jared Cohen, student, College of Engineering
“The leadership roles in these student organizations can be demanding, but I have made so many great friends. Serving these groups has taught me valuable skills that will contribute to my success.”
Top photo: Hanging with friends after a few hours of rock climbing. Left to Right: Ryan Domalik, Jared Cohen, David Domalik, Gavin Christopher, Jodie Hung, Eliza Reedy.