Maya Ajit

Year in School
Sophomore

Major
CS

Research Interests
Artificial Intelligence Computers and Education Interactive Computing

Research Mentor
Koustuv Saha

Research/Engagement Experience

Interests
Interactive Computing, Computers and Education, Artificial Intelligence

Project Title

How did I get interested in Computer Science?
My first experience with Computer Science was through robotics in middle school and using block code to program small robots. However, I finally decided to pursue Computer Science after attending a summer web development camp called Kode with Klossy that was designed to encourage and give girls the skills to pursue Computer Science!

What social interests matter to me?
I'm passionate about racial and gender equality and increasing diversity in STEM. As someone who was one of only a few girls in my coding classes in high school, I want to encourage young girls to pursue Computer Science and show them all of the opportunities that the field can provide!

What is my most impactful college experience?
My most impactful college experience was joining Women in Computer Science last year as a freshman! I was a member of the outreach committee and got to help plan events to introduce local middle and high school students to computer science. Through this RSO, I met so many other girls in my major and it helped me feel more supported and connected to UIUC and CS!

These are a few of my favorite things!
I love crocheting, listening to music, reading, and drinking tea!

Research Description

Biography
My name is Maya Ajit and I'm a sophomore studying Computer Science at UIUC. I'm originally from Durham, New Hampshire. My research interests include Interactive Computing, Computers and Education, and Artificial Intelligence. Apart from CS STARS, I'm involved in WCS. I'm passionate about racial and gender equality and increasing diversity in STEM.