TACC’s 2025 Advanced Computing Student Collaborative provides an opportunity for talented students to compute on the most powerful academic supercomputer in the world and collaborate with experts at TACC.
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Academic Institution: North Dakota State University
Field of Study: Computer Science
As a child, I wanted to be an engineer. I started in Computer and Electrical Engineering, but after taking computer-related courses, I enjoy coding and building through software more than working with hardware. My current major is Computer Science with a minor in AI and Robotics. One of my favorite things about campus is the everyday learning—both inside and outside the classroom. I enjoy diving into new material, but I also value the moments where I interact with friends. There are many challenges I care about, each with its own impact and urgency. I believe every issue carries its own weight and deserves attention in its own unique way.
Academic Institution:The University of Texas at Austin
Field of Study:Mechanical Engineering
I’m studying Mechanical Engineering because I’ve always been curious about how things work. Mechanical Engineering gives me the foundation to explore everything from product design to advanced manufacturing. I enjoy the strong sense of community and teamwork at UT Austin. I’m always motivated by the energy around me. When I was a child, I wanted to be an Olympian because I loved the idea of pushing myself to the limit and representing Ethiopia on a global stage. I deeply care about access to high-quality education because it opens the door to opportunity, confidence, and change. I’ve seen how exposure and support in STEM education can shape a student’s path.
Academic Institution:Colby College
Field of Study:Computer Science
I chose to major in Computer Science with a focus on Artificial Intelligence because I’m passionate about using technology to solve real-world problems. Growing up, I saw how brilliant minds were left behind simply because they didn’t fit into traditional society. I have worked to change that by building tools that make STEM education more inclusive for visually impaired students. I wanted to be an engineer because I loved tinkering with gadgets and figuring out how things worked. Even when I failed at building something or couldn’t fix a broken device, I was more curious than discouraged. As a college student, my favorite aspects of campus life are the strong sense of community and the support for interdisciplinary exploration. I appreciate how students and faculty are open to collaboration across departments, which allows me to explore my interests in Computer Science to solve problems in education.
Academic Institution:Texas State University
Field of Study:Mechanical Engineering, minor in Applied Mathematics
When I was younger, I wanted to be a lawyer. When I started attending STEM camps, I realized how much I enjoyed building, designing, and understanding how things work. At Texas State University, I study Mechanical Engineering and minor in Applied Mathematics because I enjoy breaking down complex systems and understanding the logic behind how things work. The campus feels both lively and peaceful. As I stand on the edge of adulthood, I see society in somewhat of an upheaval financially, politically, and socially. I’ve dedicated myself to innovation and advancement, yet it’s hard to ignore the instability around me. Engineering without empathy leads to cold solutions, and empathy without innovation leads to stagnation. To move forward, we must merge logic with compassion.
Academic Institution: University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Since I was in middle school, I’ve been passionate about computers and programming. As a Computer Science major, I love getting into my core classes at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. The campus provides a safe environment where I can focus on my studies. One social challenge I care deeply about is the growing issue of loneliness among my generation. Despite being more connected than ever because of the internet, I’ve noticed that a lot of my friends—and myself—feel disconnected and are unable to form meaningful relationships. I believe that better and stronger communities are needed to begin solving this issue.
Academic Institution:Chaminade University of Honolulu
Field of Study:Data Science, Analytics, and Visualization: Criminal Justice
I care about access to education among students. Growing up, I wanted to be president because I was passionate about leadership and making a difference in the world. When I was younger, I visited the Dominican Republic and realized how grateful I am for all that I have. Since that trip, I have wanted to do everything I could to make life better for local youth and boost access to education. I study Data Science Analytics and Visualization because I want to pursue a career that serves others in tangible ways.
Academic Institution:Berea College
Field of Study:Computer Science and Quantitative Economics (Data Analysis Concentration)
I major in Computer Science and Quantitative Economics at Berea College because I’m passionate about using data and technology to solve real-world problems, especially those related to resource access. Growing up, I wanted to be a pilot because I was fascinated by the idea of seeing the world from above. Over time, I realized what I really wanted was the ability to explore beyond the limits I saw around me, whether that was geographic, economic, or educational. Millions of people—especially in rural or low-income areas—lack access to basic technology or internet connectivity. This gap limits education, job opportunities, and innovation. I grew up without regular access to a computer, so I understand how transformative it is when you finally have a chance to learn and build with technology.
Academic Institution: Grambling State
Field of Study: University Biology
Growing up, I wanted to be a doctor to help those battling health challenges. Currently, I’m pursuing a degree in Biology at Grambling State because I want to become an optometrist. When I’m on campus, a perfect day for me is one where I could spend time with God by reading my Bible and praying. In our society, many people achieve success by taking shortcuts or inappropriate means. Some students will cheat to get better grades, but they have not acquired any knowledge. The true reward in putting in effort to get what you want comes when you gain experience and equip yourself for every challenge.
Field of Study:English, Education, Hawaiian & Pacific Studies
Chaminade University provides me with a sense of community and lets me build connections to professors and other faculty. I major in English because it has always been my favorite subject. I like to read and analyze texts and stories. I minor in Education because I want to be a teacher. I also minor in Hawaiian & Pacific studies because I loved my Hawaiian History classes in high school and want to stay connected to my culture. Although I hold myself to high academic standards, I must remember that doing well should feel like more of an achievement instead of an obligation. As a woman, I care about women’s reproductive rights. Everyone has the right to decide what is best for themselves.
Field of Study:Data Science & Computer Science
I am a Data Science major at Chaminade University of Honolulu. The professors in my program care about their students and want them to learn. I also feel that my campus makes STEM internships more accessible than other universities. My school prioritizes the local community. There is a lack in Hawaiian/local high schoolers being able to stay in Hawaii and attend college. However, we offer scholarships to Hawaiian students and make it a point to help local students reach their education goals. I love supporting an institution that prioritizes accessible education.
Academic Institution:Austin Community College
Field of Study:IT Cybersecurity
I grew up watching Carl Sagan’s Cosmos and Neil deGrasse Tyson’s continuation of the series. I wanted to be an astronaut because space always fascinated me. Currently, I am majoring in Cybersecurity at Austin Community College. Technology’s impact on our mental health, attention span, misinformation, social comparison, and depression should be studied. Our society’s cognitive offloading to AI is breaking our education system. My perfect day will be the day I marry my fiancée.
Academic Institution:Prairie View A&M University
Field of Study:Computer Science, Cybersecurity
My career aspirations were all over the map until I graduated high school and Cybersecurity caught my full attention. Now, I’m pursuing Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity. A career in cyber forensics would perfectly combine my love for tech and forensics. Homelessness is a societal challenge I care about because we have the resources to aid everyone in need. No one should be forced to go without stable housing. Society should use the advancements in technology to aid us all in having a better quality of life.
Academic Institution:Vanderbilt University
Field of Study:Computer Science, Mathematics, Cognitive Studies
As a child in Bangladesh, I wanted to be an inventor because I was fascinated by machines. I always imagined creating something that could solve big problems. That drive to understand, build, and help others is a big part of why I’m pursuing a career in technology and a current Computer Science and Mathematics major at Vanderbilt University. Growing up, I saw how access to quality education and technology can drastically shape someone’s future. Many talented students never reached their potential because they didn’t have the right tools, teachers, or opportunities. Bridging that gap is something I want to contribute to throughout my career.
Academic Institution:Rochester Institute of Technology
Field of Study:Software Engineering
When I was younger, I wanted to be a Roblox game developer because it was the game that I played the most. I created a Scratch video game in the fifth grade which won me the science fair that year. I realized that the feelings I had toward game development stemmed from wanting to create something that makes people happy and makes space for community. As a Software Engineering major, I want to strengthen my computational skills to make a widespread positive impact. Misinformation is a challenge we must address. I want to learn more about data science and applications because I understand the power of data and how much it can be twisted to fit any narrative.
Academic Institution: Grambling State University
I am a Computer Science major because I want to make the world a better place for all. My background exposed me to the divide in technology access, and that pushed me to become part of the movement to build solutions for issues often overlooked. With constant notifications, misinformation, and pressure to stay connected, technology can amplify fear and confusion instead of easing it. I want to build systems that reduce noise, provide clarity, and offer calm during stressful moments. I believe technology should help people feel grounded, not overwhelmed.
Academic Institution:Northwest Vista College
Field of Study:Cloud Computing, Bachelor of Applied Technology
I’m studying Cloud Computing at Northwest Vista College. I want to work in cloud infrastructure, designing solutions for various problems. I care about social inequality. The growing income gap and limited access to education, quality healthcare, housing, and opportunities is an issue. These challenges affect individuals, communities, and generations. I believe technology can help bridge some of these gaps, alongside policy solutions that ensure resources and opportunities aren’t just seen, but accessible.
Field of Study:Forensic Science, Criminal Justice & Criminology, Chemistry
My current majors are Forensic Science and Criminal Justice/Criminology. I want to work in crime labs and analyze evidence to help solve crimes. At Chaminade University, I love the tight-knit community on campus. Professors earnestly care about students, going above and beyond to ensure successful careers in college and beyond. Being from Hawai’i, a societal challenge important to me is the lack of data or data invisibility of the indigenous peoples of the Hawaiian Islands. This creates disparities in health care, education, and funding opportunities.
Academic Institution:Fresno State
Field of Study:Applied Mathematics
As an Applied Mathematics major, I want to pursue a career in data science after college. I’ve had a special interest in math since high school. In college, I realized that I also enjoy physics. Fresno State University has a variety of student organized clubs that revolve around my major, and the advising professors of these clubs are just as committed as the students. I care about improving the lack of representation of women in color in the STEM field because having a diverse group of people who can share their thoughts and new ideas is important in a field that evolves and changes every day.
Field of Study:Data Science, Analytics, Visualization
I’m pursuing a degree in Data Science, Analytics, and Visualization because I love looking at the data that makes up the composition of everything. I love learning from all the numbers about why things happen the way they do and how we might be able to tell what’s going to happen next. While I am concerned about energy use—especially considering how much data science is going to need—I’m confident we can find a way to keep things moving forward. I love seeing new up-and-coming technologies and thinking about how they’re going to improve society.
Academic Institution:University of Houston Clear-Lake
Field of Study:Computer Engineering
Computers have always interested me. Learning how to use circuit boards, programs, and other computer components can be fascinating. This curiosity steered me toward majoring in Computer Engineering. My father was a mechanic—watching him repair vehicles sparked a curiosity about how cars operated. It’s not a far leap from studying the internal workings of cars to computers. In college, the best advice I have received is to put in maximum effort, no matter how difficult the task. Your grades will reflect your effort.
Field of Study:Computer Science, Applied Mathematics
I major in Computer Science at Texas State University. I chose this field after taking my first Python course. I had never taken a computer class in high school, let alone a coding class. As someone who thought I could never keep up with technology, looking at the successful compilation of my code after a challenging assignment gave me creative satisfaction. A societal challenge I care about is domestic abuse, which persists globally. No one—survivors, children, or anyone—should live in fear at home. Early intervention in these situations can save lives and futures.
I had the opportunity to take an AP Computer Science in high school, where I found my passion for coding. Although I wasn’t sure which computing field I wanted to pursue, the Computing Exploration Program at the Rochester Institute of Technology helped me realize my preference for Computer Science. Meeting d/Deaf individuals inspired me to minor in American Sign Language and Deaf Cultural Studies, where I learned about the educational and social barriers these individuals face. I hope to contribute to positive change and advocacy in this area.
Academic Institution:The University of Texas at San Antonio
Field of Study:Civil Engineering
I am a Civil Engineering major at The University of Texas at San Antonio. The campus has a very welcoming community. It’s easy to meet new people, and there are many organizations and activities one can join.
Academic Institution:Midwestern State University
I am studying Computer Science at Midwestern State University. I am fascinated with technology and what happens in the background when machines are running. Growing up, I wanted to be a scuba diver. I still think that the ocean is amazing although I no longer want to follow that path. A social challenge I care about is tackling anxiety. When I am put on the spot, I get nervous and struggle through such interactions.
Academic Institution:Stetson University
I study Computer Science at Stetson University. As a first-generation student, I witnessed how a lack of digital infrastructure can hold entire communities back. I saw teachers struggle with outdated systems, hospitals buried in paperwork, and students relying on borrowed computers to complete assignments. I didn’t just want to use technology; I wanted to learn how to build it, improve it, and make it more accessible. Access to quality education—especially for students from low-income backgrounds or under-resourced communities—is a societal challenge we must tackle. I want to use my background in technology to build tools and systems that make learning more accessible, personalized, and empowering.
Academic Institution:Skyline College
A social challenge I care about is the educational resource imbalance between rural and urban areas. I come from a village in a foreign country, and my environment lacked high-quality educational resources. Many first-generation students face similar challenges while seeking higher education, including family responsibilities and financial pressure. I am pursuing a degree in Computer Science because I want to build a website for an open educational resource that serves the people of my country. Growing up, I wanted to be a writer because words have the power to change perception and improve our narrow points of view.
