Alumni who inspire: Krystal Capers

Alumni Who Inspire! program featuring WVU alumna Krystal Capers.

The Alumni Who Inspire! program was launched in Fall 2023 to recognize Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources alumni who demonstrate Mountaineer values, and their achievements to inspire future generations of engineers and computer scientists.

Q&A session with Krystal Capers
Photos supplied

Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

“We are proud to shine a spotlight on Krystal Capers, distinguished alumna of the Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering” said Cerasela Zoica Dinu , associate dean for student, faculty and staff engagement and coordinator of the program. Capers earned her bachelor’s in biomedical engineering in 2017 and subsequently pursued a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology at West Virginia University.    

Q: Why did you choose WVU? 

A: I first learned about WVU when I attended an information session for my brother in high school. Growing up in Jackson, New Jersey, I always had an interest in medicine but hadn't decided on a specific school. The WVU interest session showcased the school's excellent education and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The Pride of West Virginia particularly intrigued me, and I was eager to be a part of it. 

Initially, I enrolled at WVU as a biology major with the goal of pursuing pre-medical studies. However, I felt a lack of satisfaction with being solely a biology student, as I wanted a major that involved critical thinking and practical application. 

During the summer before my freshman year, I began researching majors that combined a strong science background with technical skills. I wanted a unique approach to my studies, aiming not only to learn science but also to understand how to address and enhance medical needs. This led me to explore biomedical engineering, and after thorough research in the field, I discovered that WVU was accepting applications for its inaugural class of biomedical engineers that year. 

 

Q: What were some activities you were involved with outside of the classroom? 

A: During my time at WVU, I thoroughly enjoyed exploring various interests. My classes proved to be quite challenging, requiring more dedication than initially anticipated to grasp the concepts. I experimented with different study methods to be most effective across different types of courses. In addition to my academic pursuits, I interned at National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) the summer before my senior year, providing practical application of the concepts I had learned. 

I was an active participant on campus, playing the clarinet in the Pride of West Virginia throughout my four undergraduate years. Additionally, I served as a Resident Assistant in Stalnaker Hall from my sophomore year of undergraduate studies through my final year of graduate studies. Despite a busy schedule with marching band and classes, I engaged in various clubs to explore different interests. To gain exposure to the medical field, I volunteered at WVU Medicine and later worked for WVU's Department of Psychiatry during my graduate studies. 

 

Q: Who was your support system?     

A: My family played a crucial role in supporting me during my time at WVU. As a first-generation college graduate, the entire process felt like a significant experiment, and I had to navigate it one step at a time. While my parents couldn't assist me academically, their unwavering encouragement and motivation were always there. Reflecting on it now, I recognize how fortunate I was to be able to have this experience, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have had that experience. 

 

Q: Tell us about your professional journey since graduating from the Statler College.  

A: Initially, my plan was to pursue medical school immediately after completing my undergraduate studies, placing immense pressure on myself to graduate swiftly for that purpose. However, as I entered my senior year, I began to realize that there were alternative paths beyond the immediate pursuit of medical school. Instead, upon earning my undergraduate degree, I opted to enroll in WVU's School of Public Health and attained my Master’s of Public Health in Epidemiology in 2019. 

After graduating, I took some time for self-reflection to determine the types of jobs I wanted to pursue. Armed with a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering and an M.P.H. in Epidemiology, I maintained my interest in eventually applying to medical school. I sought a job that would encompass my diverse educational background and keep me immersed in medicine until I was ready for medical school. 

During my job search, I discovered a position as a clinical research coordinator in Boston, MA. After conversations with my current manager, I was convinced that this role aligned perfectly with my diverse background. Within a year, I was promoted to project manager, overseeing numerous studies in anesthesia, critical care and pain medicine. While the role demanded technical proficiency and presented a steep learning curve, collaborating with exceptional clinicians and researchers has been immensely rewarding. Moreover, I still have the opportunity for further growth within the field or potential pursuit of medical training. 

 

Q: What are the top three tips that you would give to students who want to follow in your footsteps? 

1. Stay focused on your own journey: Throughout my undergraduate studies, I came to the realization that attaining an engineering degree is more of a marathon than a sprint. There will be both good and bad days, but it's crucial to approach it one day at a time. On days when things don't go well, remember that discomfort is temporary, but the knowledge gained and memories made will last a lifetime. 
   
   
2. Embrace novel experiences and don't shy away from trying new things: Always stay open to change. Growth often requires putting yourself in unfamiliar situations. Whether it's presenting research at a conference, joining a new club, or pursuing a leadership position, stepping out of your comfort zone is essential for personal development. 
   
   
3. Give your best effort when presented with an opportunity: It's natural to feel apprehensive when taking on a new opportunity, especially in a different environment. Whenever I embrace a new challenge, I remind myself that when I eventually move on from the position, I want to be remembered for the impact I've made and the contributions I've brought to the role.

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