91��Ƭ��

Sometimes we don’t always make a career out of what we intended to do at age 18. For Sravanth Kumar Kondapalli, a BS in mechanical engineering at Lovely Professional University in Punjab turned into a pursuit of a master’s in engineering management with a focus on health tech. Though his background was in engineering, he was drawn to the rapid technological advancements taking place in healthcare.

Kondapalli is currently finishing up a graduate co-op as a research associate at the Florida Heart Center studying remote monitors and AI applications for pacemakers. Working under Dr. Prasad Chalasani, he’s detailing the outcomes of patients who undergo transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and how pacemakers are used after the procedure, helping to make more effective pacemakers and ensure that TAVR works for those in need. Pacemakers enhanced with AI help to detect early cardiac issues, automatically adjust their pacing based on patient activity, and can send real-time alerts to doctors. They can even extend battery life through smart energy management. These advancements make pacemakers more efficient, responsive, and personalized for better patient outcomes.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my work has been seeing how data-driven analysis can directly influence healthcare decisions,” Kondapalli said. “My research contributions have helped uncover insights that could shape future medical practices and technological advancements in cardiology. Being part of a research initiative that directly impacts patient care and medical device effectiveness has reinforced my passion for applying engineering management principles in healthcare.”

Drexel’s graduate co-op offers students the opportunity for up to six months of total immersion in the field they’re studying. Along with integrating classroom skills into the workplace, students receive mentorship opportunities and contribute to projects that further improve today's technology and systems.

“This co-op has been a perfect extension of my coursework,” he said. “By working on real-world clinical data, I have been able to apply my knowledge of statistical analysis, process optimization, and AI-driven monitoring systems.”

When Kondapalli comes back to the classroom, he’s got a reinforced skillset and knowledge on the importance of accuracy in data collection and analysis. In healthcare, each data point is important to understand how best to monitor a patient’s care. The experience not only reinforced his interest in engineering management but brought a new interest in interdisciplinary collaboration.

“My co-op has given me invaluable professional experience, from collaborating with cross-functional teams to presenting research findings. I have developed stronger analytical skills and learned to navigate the challenges of working in a healthcare setting,” he said. “The mentorship I have received has also provided me with insights into the practical aspects of research and development, which will be crucial as I move forward in my career.