Kaavya Mahajan

Year in School
Sophomore

Major

Research Interests

Research Mentor

Research/Engagement Experience
Computational Biology, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, Social Network Analytics

Interests

Project Title

How did I get interested in Computer Science?
I got interested in Computer Science when I started teaching myself how to code. It gave me the freedom to try things, fail, and learn in a way I hadn’t experienced before. I explored different areas like web development and AI, just following my curiosity. Along the way, I realized I was especially drawn to data and how numbers could be used to solve problems and understand the world more clearly. That mix of exploration, problem-solving, and constant learning is what got me into CS, and it’s what keeps me excited about it.

What social interests matter to me?

Why did you choose Illinois?
I chose UIUC for its strong Computer Science program and the opportunities it offers to get involved in impactful projects early on. The collaborative culture, combined with access to research and a strong industry network, felt like the right environment to grow my skills. I also appreciated how the program encourages exploration across different areas of CS, which aligns well with my interests in both engineering and interdisciplinary applications.

What are your passions outside of computing?
Outside of computing, I’m passionate about building communities where people can grow together. I love bringing together curious, driven individuals who are committed not just to their own success, but to uplifting the people around them. Whether it’s through mentoring, organizing events, or just creating spaces for people to connect, I find a lot of purpose in fostering that kind of environment.

What has been one of your favorite experiences at Illinois that you would like to share with prospective students? (For Continuing UIUC Students)
One of my favorite experiences at Illinois has been participating in HackIllinois. It was an incredible mix of building something from scratch, learning new tools on the fly, and working alongside people who were just as motivated and creative. Beyond the coding, it was a chance to connect with a community that’s passionate about tech, share ideas, and have a lot of fun in the process.

What has been one of your favorite experiences as a CS STAR? (For Returning CS STARS)

What is my most impactful college experience?

These are a few of my favorite things!
Coffee, mystery novels and pop music!

Research Description

Biography
I’m Kaavya Mahajan, a sophomore studying Computer Science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Originally from India, I enjoy building projects that connect data, systems, and real-world applications, ranging from risk engines to forecasting tools. Along the way, I’ve worked with machine learning, full-stack development, and cloud technologies, gaining experience in languages like C++, Python, and Java. I’m curious about how computer science can intersect with other fields, and I’m always looking for opportunities to learn, collaborate, and work on projects that have a meaningful impact.