International Student Program Provides Life-Changing Experience

STEPHEN SECHLER ’15 EE, George J. Mitchell Scholars, Dublin, Ireland

Sechler graduated from Trinity College Dublin with a master’s degree in Bioengineering with a focus in Neural Engineering. He completed a research-based thesis project on alternative methods to measure sound localization abilities for individuals with bilateral cochlear implants.

Most valuable lesson learned: How to be comfortable with uncertainty! Impact on career path: My time as a Mitchell Scholar thoroughly impacted my career path, though not at all in the way I expected. While applying for bioengineering opportunities in both Ireland and the US, I submitted my resume to an actuarial development program at Cigna. I was invited to interview for the job despite not having any actuarial background or experience, and eventually was offered a position. My first role was in international health insurance, and I later learned that my experience as a Mitchell Scholar was a key factor in being offered the initial interview.

How Villanova prepared me for this experience: Villanova’s Electrical Engineering program enabled me to succeed with the technical aspects of my thesis research during my Mitchell year. Though I no longer work directly in an engineering role, the skills I honed during my time in the College of Engineering prepared me for success in a dynamic and challenging industry. I learned how to collaborate, and I rely on my written and verbal communication abilities and problem-solving skills on a daily basis.