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"In 10 years, I hope I will be using my computer engineering skills to do environmental work, whether that is researching at an institution or working at a company that is developing new ways to be kinder to the planet.”

Hometown: Burlington, Iowa

Year: Senior

Program: Computer Science and Engineering

Mission Areas: Systems and Sensors

Lab: Ananya Sen Gupta Research Group

Advisor: Ananya Sen Gupta, assistant professor of computer and electrical engineering

What do you work on and what do you enjoy most about your work? 
I have been assisting with a project on the Deepwater Horizon oil spill this past year. The algorithm our team has developed enables us to track how individual compounds degrade over time. This would be applied to reduce the use of dispersants. I enjoy that I can learn real-life skills that are not taught in class and understand how research works.

What achievements are you most proud of? 
I did not think I would be a co-author on a paper as an undergrad. It is exciting to have the opportunity to work on a project that will be read by other members of the scientific community.

What are your goals for the future? What do you hope to be doing professionally in 10 years?

After graduating, I plan to attend grad school for my master’s degree, although I am still determining what programs and universities fit my career interests best. In 10 years, I hope I will be using my computer engineering skills to do environmental work, whether that is researching at an institution or working at a company that is developing new ways to be kinder to the planet.