Pingping Ma

[MSME 1989, Ph.D. ME1992]
Research Associate
Global Technology Center
Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
Allentown, Pennsylvania

E-mail: MAP@airproducts.com

When I applied for a graduate school after receiving my undergraduate degree in China, I was impressed by the research capabilities of Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, and the growing recognition of Georgia Tech. I was also fascinated by the vitality of Atlanta.

I gained a lot of knowledge through my graduate experience on how to use innovative approaches to solve unfamiliar and difficult research problems, interact with people of different backgrounds, learn from peer graduate students, and communicate with follow researchers. These aspects have benefitted me ever since. I felt fortunate to have an advisor - Dr. David Ku, who is an expert in many areas and a great motivator, who deeply cares for each studen's academic progress as well as future career.

The special academic and social bond of the Bioengineering Center on the third floor of the SSTC building was really a bonus to me. The friendly yet challenging atmosphere among faculty members, administrative staff and fellow students immediately made me feel comfortable. The Center was a true representation of an international group. The five years of interactions taught me that there is definitely more commonality than disagreement among people regardless of our backgrounds.

The multidisciplined graduate program prepares students well with skills ready for the real world. The collaboration and interactions with researchers in different areas coach students effectively for communication and teamwork abilities. The interdisciplinary nature of the Bioengineering Program is a great example.

The Woodruff School's graduate program is first class and highly regarded by industries. The knowledge and experience cultivated in the graduate programs cover solid fundamental backgrounds as well as practical applications.