Hey everyone! My name is Kyle Smith. I am a biomedical engineering major at the University of Arkansas, and was born and raised in Magnolia, Arkansas. For those who have never heard of it, Magnolia is a small town of about 12,000 in southwest Arkansas, located pretty close to the Louisiana border. I’ve been a Razorback fan all of my life and have always loved the football team. I had always dreamed of attending the University of Arkansas and affirmed my love of the school when I visited Fayetteville for the first time my sophomore year of high school. I instantly fell in love with northwest Arkansas and the beautiful mountains.
Throughout high school, I spent most of my days playing percussion. I was passionate about music and enjoyed playing piano and writing some of my own music. My goal was to be a part of the Razorback Marching Band, and I auditioned and got accepted last May. I have loved being part of the program and think it has one of the best staffs in the nation. The picture of me on the “meet the bloggers” page is actually from my first band concert with the University of Arkansas Symphonic Band. Yes, it is my first time tying a bowtie (don’t tell anyone).
The story of how I got interested in biomedical engineering was sudden. The week before orientation I received a phone call from one of the student staff members confirming my information. At the time, I was registered as a biochemistry major. I told her I was interested in a career in research; she quickly told me about the interesting research biomedical engineers do. Being the cautious person I am, I went down to the engineering welcome center to see what it was all about. When I showed up, they found someone to give me a spontaneous tour and answer all my questions, plus a free t-shirt (score!).
Having just finished the Freshman Engineering Program, I have learned about all the great engineering programs that the university has to offer. However, my passion for biomedical engineering has persisted throughout the year. At the recent decision day, I declared biomedical engineering and haven’t regretted it. I just finished my advising appointment for next semester, and I really look forward to planning my schedule. I hope everyone has had a wonderful summer, and and Woo Pig Sooie!