BME + Harp Performance · Northwestern '30 · Inventor · Educator
Northwestern University dual-degree student pursuing Biomedical Engineering and Harp Performance — with published patents and a passion for music, engineering, and education.

Kayleen Cho
Northwestern University · Class of 2030
Two patent applications in AI-driven health systems, plus active engineering research at Northwestern.
International competition winner, GTCYS principal harpist, and four-time MMTA piano contest winner.
AP coursework, ACT prep, college essays, and musical & research portfolio building.
Research, Patents & Experience
From patent-pending AI systems to hands-on engineering projects, here's a snapshot of my academic and professional work.
An AI-driven detection system identifying cognitive interference in drivers to enhance road safety. Integrates real-time monitoring with adaptive music-based interventions to regulate driver focus and reduce distraction.
A technological apparatus assessing and mitigating symptoms of neurodevelopmental disorders, integrating music-based therapeutic interventions to support cognitive and behavioral regulation.
Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to identify systemic problems in the biotech industry, formulate technical solutions through rigorous data analysis, and develop a comprehensive paper and market analysis evaluating commercial scalability.
Collaborating with project stakeholders and a 4-person team to design custom art tools improving accessibility for children with limited motor function — analyzing user needs and technical constraints for safety and durability in pediatric use.
Providing 1-on-1 academic support in STEM subjects and music, emphasizing analytical reasoning, problem-solving, and study strategies.
Created user-generated content for companies to increase brand engagement and audience reach across social media platforms.
Musical Accomplishments
From international competition stages to principal orchestra chairs — a record of dedication to musical excellence across harp and piano.
Intermediate II Scholarship Winner, recognizing outstanding harp performance and musical achievement.
Scholarship AwardFirst Prize in Category E — "Crescere Con La Musica" International Online Harp Competition.
1st Prize · InternationalPrincipal Harpist for both the Northwestern Symphonic Band and Chamber Orchestra, performing at the collegiate level at Bienen School of Music.
Principal Chair · NorthwesternSolo Harpist in Northwestern University's production of Puccini's opera La Rondine, performing the principal harp part in a fully staged opera production.
Solo Harpist · OperaPrincipal Harpist of the GTCYS Symphony Orchestra — the ensemble's flagship chair — performing major symphonic works across the Twin Cities, including the 2024 international tour through Southern France and Barcelona.
Principal Chair · 3 SeasonsPrincipal Harpist for GTCYS Symphony Orchestra's international performance tour through Southern France and Barcelona, Spain.
International TourPrincipal Harpist, advancing to the Symphony Orchestra principal chair the following season.
Principal ChairFour consecutive years as a contest winner — a statewide competition recognizing exceptional piano performance across all age and skill levels.
4× Winner · StatewidePrivate Piano Instruction
With over a decade of performance experience, four MMTA contest wins, and currently pursuing a music degree at Northwestern's Bienen School of Music, I bring technical depth and genuine artistic passion to students of every level.
Lessons are held in-person at a private studio in Chaska, MN. Sessions are 30 minutes or 1 hour — customizable to fit your schedule and goals.
Schedule a LessonNote reading, hand position, foundational technique, and simple repertoire. Great for kids and adults starting fresh.
Scales, sight-reading, classical and contemporary pieces, dynamics, and musical expression.
Advanced repertoire, in-depth interpretation, performance skills, and audition preparation.
Harmony, ear training, composition fundamentals, and AP Music Theory exam preparation.
Audition repertoire, artist statement guidance, and music portfolio building for college applications.
Young beginners to adult learners — lessons shaped around your schedule, pace, and musical interests.
Rates are flexible and can be discussed based on the student's needs and goals. Contact me for more information.
Your first session is a complimentary 30-minute meeting to discuss your goals, experience, and what you're looking for in lessons — so we can tailor everything to you before committing to a schedule.
Book Your First Session on CalendlyStudio located in Chaska, MN. For questions, text 952-688-8212 or email kayleencho2029@u.northwestern.edu.
Academic Support & College Mentorship
I've completed 12 AP courses, navigated the college application process into Northwestern's highly competitive dual-degree program, and have been tutoring students since 2021. My support is grounded in real, recent experience.
Whether you need subject help, ACT prep, essay coaching, or portfolio guidance — I offer mentorship that goes beyond surface-level instruction.
Book a SessionRates can be discussed depending on the student's needs. Travel to student's home available depending on distance — travel fees may apply. Sessions also available at libraries or cafés near Chaska, MN.
AP Courses — All 12 personally completed
Core & General Academics
Specialty Mentorship
Targeted prep across all four ACT sections — English, Math, Reading, and Science — with practice strategy, pacing, and content review built around your weak areas.
Brainstorming, drafting, and refining your personal statement and supplementals. I help you tell your authentic story with clarity and impact — drawing on my own successful application experience.
From my own journey applying to Northwestern's dual-degree program, I guide student musicians in building compelling performance portfolios, audition materials, and artist statements.
Presenting research projects, science fair work, and academic accomplishments in a polished portfolio that strengthens college applications and scholarship submissions.
Available online — pick a subject, specialty service, or reach out to discuss a custom plan.
Schedule on CalendlyFor questions, text 952-688-8212 or email kayleencho2029@u.northwestern.edu.