Challenge <p>Tissue engineering is an important field within biomedical engineering, yet it is rarely introduced to first-year students due to the costs of specialized equipment, infrastructure limitations, and safety requirements associated with laboratory-based experiences. Consequently, early undergraduate curricula often exclude experiential modules in areas such as cell culture and cryopreservation, despite evidence that hands-on activities at this stage enhance student engagement, confidence, and persistence in engineering.</p> Novel Initiative <p>To address this gap, we developed a low-cost, accessible cryopreservation module suitable for a large first-year biomedical engineering course. The module included a lecture introducing cryopreservation principles with a hands-on laboratory activity using eggplant slices treated with different cryoprotective agents. Working in small groups, students designed and conducted experiments to investigate temperature, texture, and thawing outcomes of the eggplants which allowed them to learn about experimental design and explore core tissue engineering concepts.</p> Reflection <p>Student survey responses indicated strong engagement, satisfaction, and improved understanding of cryopreservation concepts. Open-ended feedback highlighted increased awareness of cryoprotective mechanisms and suggested refinements in equipment and instructional clarity. Instructor observations confirmed high enthusiasm and participation, though additional scaffolding for experimental design would further support first-year learners. This initiative demonstrates that meaningful tissue engineering experiences can be introduced early in the undergraduate curriculum through cost-effective and accessible modules.</p>