Sarah Dowden

Year in School
Junior

Major
CS

Research Interests
Computer Graphics and Vision Theory and Algorithms

Research Mentor
Nancy Amato

Research/Engagement Experience
Undergraduate Summer Research Program

Interests
Algorithms, Graph Algorithms

Project Title

How did I get interested in Computer Science?
I got interested in computer science after learning how to code a basic robots in 6th grade. I thought it was so cool to be able to tell a machine what to do and have it execute the commands.

What social interests matter to me?
I am interested in educational equality. My mom is an elementary school teacher, so I have grown up volunteering in schools and after school programs for disadvantaged students. I have worked with many children and families who do not have the resources for proper help, and I see around the world the countless people who do not have access to education. I believe that education is one of the most important factors a child/person can receive to improve their life and society.

Why did you choose Illinois?

What are your passions outside of computing?

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?
My most impactful college experience has been the summer research program, so far. I was able to learn so much about both my research topic and graduate school, that it solidified my interest in pursuing graduate studies.

These are a few of my favorite things!
Passion fruit, dinosaurs, musicals, Deadpool, and fruit snacks

Research Description

Biography
Sarah Dowden is a junior in computer science at UIUC. She is currently conducting research with Professor Nancy Amato and the Mind in Vitro program, aimed at doing computations with living neurons. She hopes to also start robotics research this fall, with Professor Amato.