REGAN ALCOTT

My journey in healthcare began with a childhood passion, guiding me to pursue bioengineering at the University of Illinois. The Therapeutics Engineering track captured my interest, setting the stage for my academic and professional exploration. 

Active involvement in Engineering Open House and leadership roles in Alpha Omega Epsilon sorority and Engineering Career Services honed my communication and problem-solving skills. Special topics courses within my track, particularly Regulatory and Safety Issues in Bioengineering, ignited my interest in quality engineering. 

Under the mentorship of Dr. Joseph Irudayaraj, my undergraduate research at the Mills Breast Cancer Institute deepened my understanding of R&D in bioengineering. This experience laid the groundwork for my internship in Supplier Quality Engineering at Abbott, where I delved into data analytics and regulatory challenges. 

Motivated by my interest in quality engineering, I pursued a master’s in Regulatory Compliance at Northwestern University while actively seeking career opportunities. Networking efforts at the Illinois career fair led to my current role as an Associate Quality Engineer at Medline Industries. 

Early experiences at Medline offer invaluable insights into corporate and manufacturing environments. Supported by friendly colleagues, I am poised to advance in quality engineering, driven by my passion for patient care. 

Reflecting on my Illinois experience, I emphasize the importance of staying open-minded and actively seeking diverse opportunities for skill development. Embrace the possibilities available and seize every chance to explore your passions during your time at Illinois.