Isabella Marquez

Year in School
Sophomore

Major
CS

Research Interests

Research Mentor

Research/Engagement Experience

Interests

Project Title

How did I get interested in Computer Science?
I was always interested in CS due to the impact and journey computers have taken since they were first created. In high school, with the advent of artificial intelligence taking a role in modern life, I was interested in the possibilities of AI and wanted to gain the necessary skills with UIUC computer science to pursue AI in my professional path. Even as a young girl, I was entranced by the idea that with lines of written syntax and words, something much bigger could be created. I wanted to be apart of the AI movement that took the world by storm to help give back to different communities and explore the role AI can have in society.

What social interests matter to me?

Why did you choose Illinois?
I chose Illinois because of a visit I had as a second semester highschool senior. I participated in HSV apart of the Society of Professional Hispanic Engineers. I really loved the community and felt at home.

What are your passions outside of computing?
My passions outside of computing is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, tea, fitness, and learning new things.

What has been one of your favorite experiences at Illinois that you would like to share with prospective students? (For Continuing UIUC Students)
My favorite college experience actually took place before starting my freshman year. After hearing of my acceptance into UIUC, I was contacted about a high school visitation (HSV) opportunity hosted by the Society of Professional Hispanic Engineers (SHPE). There I met many amazing and supportive upperclassmen in the engineering field, where I felt a connection and a community here at UIUC. This experience was priceless and has made the ambience at UIUC a very supportive and engaging one.

What has been one of your favorite experiences as a CS STAR? (For Returning CS STARS)
As a previous CS STAR, my favorite experience was working with my previous mentor. I felt supported and the experience gave a very good impression of CS research.

What is my most impactful college experience?

These are a few of my favorite things!
I love to organize, I love coffee and tea, and I love sweet fruity treats.

Research Description

Biography
I am Isabella Márquez, and I am a freshman in Computer Science at Grainger College of Engineering. I was born and raised in Illinois, and I love mathematics and logic problems. My dream is to gain the necessary skills to learn AI topics, such as natural language processing, data mining, AI applications, and machine learning, all to apply in social issues responsibly.