IT'S ALMOST SHOWTIME

The past two weeks in my Independent Study and Mentorship journey have definitely been full of more accomplishments, especially those with my final product, which is now conducting an experiment to test many variables and measure energy loss of various aortic valves.

The biggest achievements this week was effectively conducting the experiment with quantitative measures with Dr. Brinkman, Professor Tae-Youl Choi, and Yuqi Jin. During the experiment, we used 3D printing and various materials to create a closed circuit with the purpose of measuring the flow rate and pressure drop through various types and styles of aortic valves with different orifice areas. Professor Choi, Yuqi, and I all carefully analysed the aortic valves and the parts for the experiment to record the values that will be measured and performed the experiment to receive data that will then be recorded in the research paper for my final product.

Along with success, there have also been some setbacks. Since the experimentation aspect of my final product has been so time consuming, I have decided that for my final product I will write a report on my results and develop that into a publication over the summer. Some of the concerns and questions that I have had this week is that can all of the variables be tested?

In the future, I would like to effectively write and present my final presentation night speech to my Health Science class to rehearse as well as progress with my final product. I would also like to watch some more different unique surgeries to expand my knowledge of cardiothoracic surgery. Lastly, I want to practice my speech a couple of times before final presentation night so I can practice it without stuttering.