When Gabriel Colbrunn, a student in 91ֿ’s College of Aeronautics and Engineering, stepped into the this summer, he didn't just accept an internship—he embraced an opportunity to explore the innovative intersection of engineering and medical science. As a biomechanical testing intern, Gabe worked with a sophisticated six-degree-of-freedom robot, conducting critical research that could potentially revolutionize surgical practices.
“This internship enriched my outlook on research as a career and confirmed my interest in the medical side of engineering,” he shared.
His primary project involved using an Instron machine to analyze the failure load of knee muscles, a task that required both technical precision and medical insight. Despite coming in with limited knowledge of human anatomy, Gabe embraced the challenge by collaborating with medical professionals and diving into academic research.
"One of my most memorable moments was having the robot running with an actual human cadaver for the first time." Gabe recalls. His dedication was further highlighted when he was asked to present the center's work to a group of 15 medical professionals who were touring the facility—a testament to his growing expertise and confidence.
The internship has been transformative for Gabe's future aspirations. He's now considering graduate school and is more passionate than ever about research opportunities in the medical engineering field. He's even co-authoring a research paper that will soon be published, a significant achievement for an undergraduate intern.
For students seeking similar opportunities, Gabe's advice is straightforward: "Apply to a lot of internships and use them as a chance to explore something new." And for those feeling uncertain, he offers a reassuring message: "Don't worry too much about perfectionism."
As Gabe's internship embodies our motto, "Dare Mighty Things," he reminds us that true innovation happens when we step out of our comfort zone, embrace challenges, and push the boundaries of what's possible.
Find Your Internship
If you’re ready to explore opportunities, reach out to Steven Nowinski, the college’s career services coordinator, for guidance on finding and applying for internships. Every College of Aeronautics and Engineering student has the potential to gain transformative professional experiences like Gabe’s.