2024 - 2025
We are honored to witness the life-changing impact of higher education every day through the achievements of our exceptional students. Your support in the form of recruitment scholarships is key to attracting the brightest minds to the Master of Science in Health Technology (MS-HT) program, empowering them to unlock a future of endless possibilities and become a force for good in the world. We are grateful for your support and partnership in advancing health technology.
A message from the Dean
At Illinois, a student's imagination is never constrained. Instead, it serves as a catalyst for groundbreaking advancements in the fields of health and wellness across the lifespan. Your support and belief in our students pave the way for pioneering discoveries destined to shape our lives. We extend our deepest gratitude for your role in laying the groundwork for the upcoming era of accomplishments at Illinois.
-Cheryl Hanley-Maxwell, Dean, College of Applied Health Sciences
2024-2025 Student Recipients
Melissa Kuo, Master of Science, Health Technology, August 2025
Originally from Taiwan, Melissa Kuo earned her bachelor’s in Occupational Therapy from Chung Shan Medical University and worked as an Occupational Therapist at National Taiwan University Hsin-Chu Hospital, where she led rehabilitation efforts for stroke and spinal cord injury patients using innovative therapies such as exoskeletons and interactive rehabilitation software.
Melissa’s research interests focus on applying human factors engineering in assistive technologies, including wearable devices, assistive robots, and user interface design in both hardware and software. Her goal is to improve the usability and effectiveness of these technologies to enhance patient care. She also holds certifications in occupational therapy and assistive technology.
A message from Melissa
As an occupational therapist from Taiwan, my great passion for helping others through healthcare technologies, such as wearable devices and assistive robots, led me to the MS-HT program at Illinois. The University of Illinois stood out to me because of its strong emphasis on research and interdisciplinary collaboration, which aligns perfectly with my career goals. So far, my experience has been incredibly rewarding. One of my favorite memories is collaborating with classmates from diverse backgrounds, which has deepened my understanding of applying human factors engineering to improve people’s quality of life. I am incredibly grateful to receive the HERIF Scholarship, which has not only supported me financially but also allowed me to fully focus on my studies. After graduation, I plan to continue advancing healthcare technologies through research and collaboration. I deeply appreciate this opportunity for making this journey possible!
Amanda Graf, Master of Science, Health Technology, August 2025
Amanda Graf is a graduate student in the Health Technology Program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and sociology from Lafayette College, which sparked her interests in healthcare and human-centered design. Amanda is confident that the MS-HT program will launch her career, enabling her to make meaningful advancements in the healthcare field.
A message from Amanda
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the scholarship you awarded me. Your belief in my potential has greatly supported my pursuit of a master’s degree. When my undergraduate advisor recommended I apply for the Health Technology program at U of Illinois, I was uncertain about making a quick decision due to the application timeline. However, receiving your scholarship made that decision easier and reinforced my belief in my ability to contribute to the healthcare field. As a psychology and sociology major in undergrad, I was initially intimidated by technology and engineering. However, I’ve realized that stepping outside of my comfort zone is essential and aligns with my vision for a fulfilling career. Your support has empowered me to embrace this journey and pursue what truly inspires me.
Thank You
AHS Office of Advancement
110 Huff Hall, 1206 South Fourth St., Champaign, IL 61820