Meet Rooaa Shanshal
Collecting Spatial Frequency Domain Images (SFDI) for a research study at my co-op at Princess Margaret Cancer Research Institute.
Rooaa is a driven Biomedical Research Engineer Co-Op at Princess Margaret Cancer Research Institute and Co-founder & COO of Power of Play Inc. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering and Biomedical Engineering at McMaster University, Rooaa is passionate about the intersection of engineering and technology. Beyond her academics and career, Rooaa believes in the power of balance- finding inspiration through sketching, painting, and reading. While math provides facts, Rooaa sees art as a source of empathy, offering new perspectives and emotional depth that enrich both personal growth and professional insight
When did your love of STEM begin?
I've been fascinated by how the world works for as long as I can remember. My birthday gifts almost always included books about science, history, and nature, but math was where I truly excelled. Throughout elementary and high school, it was my strongest subject, and by my final year, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in engineering. What drew me to it was how it takes math beyond the abstract and applies it to real-world problems in meaningful ways. It felt like the perfect combination of logic and creativity, allowing me to solve challenges with both precision and innovation.
What is the best part about working in the field of STEM?
STEM has given me the skills to independently identify problems and develop meaningful solutions. My career in engineering has not only equipped me with technical expertise but has also given me the opportunity to think creatively and push boundaries using this set of skills. The best part of working in STEM is knowing that the knowledge I gain can be turned into something tangible that improves lives. Because of these experiences, I was able to co-found my own medtech startup, Power of Play Inc., where we are developing a rehabilitation tool designed specifically for pediatric patients. Children are often overlooked in rehabilitation, as most existing tools are not designed with them in mind. This is unfortunate, as early intervention can make a significant difference in their long-term development. By combining engineering with healthcare innovation, I hope to help bridge this gap and create solutions that truly serve those who need them most. Whether it is through innovation, problem-solving, or collaboration, STEM constantly challenges me to grow and make a real impact.
What advice would you give young women interested in a career in STEM?
Present yourself with confidence! It’s easy to fall into the habit of thinking that others know more or are more qualified than you, but in reality, the biggest difference is often just how you’re perceived. Trust in your skills, put yourself out there, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes because everyone does, regardless of their experience level. Growth comes from pushing past discomfort, so embrace the challenges that come from being in STEM and believe that you belong here just as much as anyone else.
Tell us a fun fact about you and your current role!
A fun fact about my current role as a biomedical research engineer co-op student is that I get to collaborate with people from a wide range of backgrounds and careers. Throughout my co-op, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to sit in on cancer resection surgeries, operate a Da Vinci robotic surgical system, and meet researchers whose work has revolutionized multiple fields. Every day brings something new, and it’s been amazing to see firsthand how engineering and medicine intersect to drive innovation.