Ryan James

Grad program: Biomedical and Health Informatics

Hometown: Kalamazoo, MI

Undergrad institution: University of Michigan, University of Washington

Undergrad major: Computer Science and Engineering, Biomedical and Health Informatics

Why did you decide to attend the UW?

I decided to attend UW for graduate studies to help doctors, patients and their families understand medical problems. My family has suffered from several medical issues, and our experiencing dealing with those issues could have been improved by access to facilitating technology.

Where do you hope your graduate education will take you?

In the future I plan on running a business that conducts research and commercializes research to bring novel solutions to the bedside in a safe and efficient manner.

GO-MAP’s* motto is “Graduate Excellence through Diversity.” What does this mean to you?

Diverse ideas lead to better outcomes. Surrounding students with people from all background will help each student succeed. In order to create such an environment every student needs an opportunity to succeed. GO-MAP’s scholarship provides such an opportunity.

Who has been your inspiration or role model?

My father. His hard work and dedication to equality through improved opportunity have positively impacted individuals, local communities and entire states improve health outcomes.

Please provide one tip you’d like to share with UW undergrads or prospective graduate students.

Fight for your ideas. If you believe in something don’t let anyone stop you from achieving your goals, because once you realize you can achieve what others think is impossible, you can help others do the same.

*GO-MAP was the name of a program that is now called GSEE, the Office of Graduate Student Equity & Excellence. Learn more.