Hi, my name is Erica Flinchbaugh. I am eighteen years old, born and raised in Frederick, MD. I have been dancing since I was three and competing since I was six. My dance studio, Elite Feet Dance Studio in Frederick, MD, sent their company to compete and perform in regional and national competitions. Since starting college, I have not danced as often, but I am a member of Pitt Ballet Club and performed in their fall show of “The Nutcracker.” I also play the piano.
Ever since I was little, I have been interested in medicine. I always thought I would become a doctor, and had even starting looking at colleges before I discovered bioengineering. Because I love calculus and physics, I thought this was a perfect combination of what I wanted. After thinking a lot, I decided that being a bioengineer seemed more like the kind of job and lifestyle I wanted, instead of being a doctor. When Pitt sent me a brochure about their bioengineering program, and I visited the campus, I immediately felt at home. This was the place for me. I really think I have the right qualities to be an engineer. I am determined, hard-working, and I love a challenge. I plan on concentrating on tissue engineering and going on to develop artificial organs. This career path allows me to work in the medical field, yet keep engineering aspect that I love.
We will be working with Oakland Transportation & Management Association (OTMA) to update the walking map of Oakland as part of their "2008 Ready, Set, Walk" campaign.