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How do molecules, materials, and processes developed in laboratories end up reshaping societies, economies, and even geopolitics? This First-Year Seminar explores landmark discoveries in chemical and biomedical engineering and examines how they have transformed the modern world—for better, for worse, and often in unexpected ways. Through case studies such as the synthesis of ammonia and the rise of synthetic fertilizers, the mass production of antibiotics, polymer and plastics revolutions, medical imaging and implantable devices, tissue engineering, and modern biotechnology, students will trace how fundamental engineering breakthroughs moved from idea to industry to everyday life. Along the way, we will ask critical questions: Who benefits from these discoveries? What risks and unintended consequences emerge? How do ethics, regulation, and public perception shape technological adoption? Rather than a technical deep dive, this seminar emphasizes storytelling, historical context, and societal impact. Students will read accessible book chapters, essays, and narrative science writing that bring engineering discoveries to life, complemented by short videos, podcasts, and in-class activities. Discussions will connect engineering innovation to global challenges such as food security, health, sustainability, and equity.