Bhavika Kothari

Year in School
Sophomore

Major
Mathematics + CS

Research Interests
Artificial Intelligence Programming Languages, Formal Methods, and Software Engineering Theory and Algorithms

Research Mentor
Hao Peng

Research/Engagement Experience
Industry/Internship Research

Interests
Artificial Intelligence, Interactive Computing, Programming Languages, Formal Methods, and Software Engineering, Theory and Algorithms

Project Title

How did I get interested in Computer Science?
In high school, I took AP Computer Science A and discovered how much I enjoyed problem-solving. I frequently attended hackathons with my friends, where we could transform our initial ideas into functional apps and websites through our coding skills. Delving into computer science has not only allowed me to develop essential skills like collaboration and time management but also given me the creative freedom to create anything. I am eager to further my knowledge in this field at the University of Illinois.

What social interests matter to me?
I am passionate about fostering equity in the technology industry and making the hidden rules of professionalism more transparent. I am also partial towards initiatives that elevate women in marginalized spaces.

What is my most impactful college experience?
My most impact experience has been joining Zindaa (my dance RSO). We performed twice at Foellinger which helped me get over my stage fright and made me more confident on stage.

These are a few of my favorite things!
I love dancing, reading, traveling, listening to hip-hop music and trying different cuisines

Research Description

Biography
I'm Bhavika Kothari, a sophomore in Math+CS at UIUC. I am an international student from India. I grew up in Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India. I've developed various projects, which have helped me gain skills in front-end development, object-oriented and functional programming languages. I've worked with various technologies and I am interested in exploring the intersection of Computer Science with Math and seeking potential opportunities!