Jean Paul Soto Aquino likes the challenging nature of engineering and views it as an outlet to develop his creativity. As Soto Aquino sees it, innovative technologies can uncover solutions to everyday problems. For example, in Puerto Rico, the majority of food is imported, although there is plenty of fertile farmland going unused. Finding practical ways to redevelop this system and help make Puerto Rico more self-reliant is a long-term goal of his.
Summer 2018, Soto Aquino researched cardiomyocyte actuation through the use of microfluidic devices. Contributing to this project was rewarding for Soto Aquino, giving him a strong sense of comfort and capability in a professional laboratory environment. He was pleasantly surprised by the facilities at Boston University, noting that the lab equipment is far superior to what is available at his school back home.
Soto Aquino was first recommended to look into this REU by his friend Javier, who was a former participant in the program. With proper time management skills and a focused attitude, he transitioned into the REU program smoothly and enjoyed Boston, which he describes as a vibrant city. He particularly liked the green spaces, highlighting Boston’s abundance of gardens and walking paths through nature.
Jean graduated from the Inter-American University, Bayamon Campus Puerto Rico, with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.
