What to Expect

One of the first things any biomedical engineering technology student needs to understand is systems.

"Every device is tied to something in some way and treated as a system," says Alexander Sackiw, a biomedical engineering technology graduate. "The human body is part of a system. A physiological monitor does nothing until it is connected to a patient. Troubleshooting skills are very important."

Bryan Fujimoto also graduated from a biomedical engineering technology program. "We generally had lectures or labs every day from around 8:30 to 4:30 in the afternoon, normally with one hour for lunch." In addition, Fujimoto says he studied three to four hours each evening.

Survival Tips

High school students must learn time management, says Fujimoto. "If they do not know how to handle their time so that they can not only study but also relax, they will not make it."

Steve White is another biomedical engineering technology graduate. He says biomedical techs should "be hard-working, responsible, quick thinking, enjoy solving problems, and have good communication and interpersonal skills, an interest in technology and an interest in human physiology."

How to Prepare

In high school, take electronics, algebra, calculus, biology, chemistry, physics and communications, says White. He also suggests learning about computers and electronics through extracurricular activities. "Word processing is pretty essential just to do assignments [and] projects," he adds.

Sackiw says communication skills are also critical. "The ability to communicate effectively comes into play when identifying problems, troubleshooting, evaluating new technology and interfacing between the clinicians and technology vendors," he says.

"Essentially, a biomed is a communicator. Any experience or knowledge that will facilitate the ability to exchange ideas, such as debating club or public speaking class, will help."