Kavya Uppal

Year in School
Freshman

Major

Research Interests

Research Mentor

Research/Engagement Experience

Interests

Project Title

How did I get interested in Computer Science?
During the COVID-19 lockdown, YouTube programming tutorials were my best friend. Since then, while I’ve enjoyed picking up skills in foundational languages like Java to more niche languages such as R through Harvard , I have to attribute the start for my love of CS to HeySteamer. In middle school, I created HeySteamer.com, an educational website where students can share quizzes and stories on their favorite subjects and build a STEM community. What started with a simple Python script, changed to a knowledge sharing website, and now this year, I have added generative AI to not answer any question but also to impart structured learning for courses such as AP Physics C: Mechanics.

What social interests matter to me?

Why did you choose Illinois?
I joined UIUC for programs just like CS STARS! Growing up in Chicago, I’d always hear about UIUC’s advancements and significance as a research institution. As a computer science major, I’m also hoping to take advantage of UIUC’s 5 year computer science B.S.-M.S. program, so the university’s commitment to undergraduate research experience is the perfect environment for me. Furthermore, aside from research, my main goal is to get involved in entrepreneurship, and UIUC’s Technology Entrepreneurship Center is a unique resource dedicated to helping Illini break into the startup world.

What are your passions outside of computing?
I am passionate about promoting gender equity in STEM and ensuring that everyone has equal access to education.

What has been one of your favorite experiences at Illinois that you would like to share with prospective students? (For Continuing UIUC Students)

What has been one of your favorite experiences as a CS STAR? (For Returning CS STARS)

What is my most impactful college experience?

These are a few of my favorite things!
Practicing tae kwon do, reading psychological thrillers, playing board and card games, spending time with my brother, mountains, rollercoasters, and any type of ice cream

Research Description
"Kavya Uppal is a freshman majoring in computer science at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign. Her research interests include conversational AI, computer vision, and quantum computing, specifically quantum error correction. In high school, she conducted explainable AI and diffusion model research at the Illinois Institute of Technology and was mentored at Google QuantumAI Labs. She has received the Stephanie Pace Marshall Grant for AI Innovation and spoken on the national television show, The Balancing Act, and the annual Illinois Association for Gifted Children conference for these projects. "

Biography