Prisha Thoguluva

Year in School
Freshman

Major
Computer Science

Research Interests
Artificial Intelligence

Research Mentor
Professor Rehg

Research/Engagement Experience
* Research under a professor at University of South Florida * Developed research paper that explores use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in diagnosing Alzheimer’s and proposes an effective disease diagnosis roadmap for use by physicians; paper has been published by the Journal of Student Research. * Internship under University of Pittsburgh Assistant Professor * As an intern under an assistant professor at University of Pittsburgh, studied the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning, and developed a convolutional neural network based image classifier using Python packages such as PyTorch and NumPy * Research Mentor Internship * Selected by an academic coaching center called “Gifted Gabber” to mentor five students on authoring STEM research papers. Coached students on the scientific method, technical and structured writing, and references and citations. * Regional Representative at Simple Studies * Promoted organization’s free study guides and educational resources on social media. * Teacher’s Assistant at Robotics For All * For this non-profit organization aiming to promote robotics and computer science education in underserved communities, managed class activities for a weekly block-coding class, including recording and maintaining attendance logs, answering technical questions, and preparing course completion certificates. * Volunteer Conference Manager at The Alzheimer’s Association * Managed video conferences between Alzheimer’s patients and caretakers to help share information about support groups, care services, and the organization’s local chapters. Promoted posters on social media about the organization’s programs and events such as Walk For Alzheimer’s.

Interests
* Swimming * Creative writing * Tutoring

Project Title

How did I get interested in Computer Science?
I become interested in Computer Science after attending the Girls Who Code organization's program on web development. I learned HTML, CSS, and Javascript programming and created interactive websites featuring photo slideshows, drop-down menus, and multiple content pages. I developed a meaningful bond with 10+ other girls interested in computer science and web development and became interested in how to use computer science to make real-world impacts in fields such as education and healthcare.

What social interests matter to me?
The social interests that matter to me is making healthcare processes more efficient, affordable, and accessible, bridging global gaps in education, and women's rights.

What is my most impactful college experience?
My most impactful college experience was going to the Women in Engineering orientation, as I got to meet fellow female engineering students, learn from many inspiring pioneers in the engineering field, and find out how I can succeed in college.

These are a few of my favorite things!
My favorite subject besides computer science is chemistry, my favorite types of movies are thrillers, my favorite color is purple, my favorite drink is lemonade, my favorite ice-cream flavor is cookies-and-cream, and my favorite snack is nachos.

Research Description
We haven't decided on a specific research topic yet, but Professor Rehg did describe to me some projects that he's overseeing. I am most interested in a project that studies how to create an AI tool that teaches people with autism how to interact socially and pick up on social cues. I am interested in this topic because it has not been widely researched and could be a significant breakthrough in helping people with autism to assimilate in society.

Biography
I grew up in central New Jersey. I lived in a family of four and have a younger sister who is four years younger than me. In my free time, I love hanging out with friends and trying new cuisines.