Sahana Sankar

Year in School
Sophomore

Major

Research Interests

Research Mentor

Research/Engagement Experience

Interests

Project Title

How did I get interested in Computer Science?
Looking back, my love for computer science probably started with my dad’s enthusiasm for it. For as long as I can remember, my dad’s face would light up whenever he talked about his job as an IT professional. I wanted to feel the same passion he had for his job. To be like my dad, I started coding in third grade. The programming wasn't particularly hard (and I wasn’t particularly that good), but I still felt that rollercoaster of emotions as I experienced the high of a successful debugging, or disappointment when an error popped up. It was all worth it though when I finally, finally, cracked the code, filling me with a wave of satisfaction. That’s what kept me coming back. That interest slowly morphed into passion as I learned more about computer science in high school.

What social interests matter to me?

Why did you choose Illinois?
I was interested in UIUC because of the research being done here: I thought a lot of the work professors were doing in AI was pretty interesting and wanted to be a part of it if I ever got the chance. I think the main reason I ended up choosing UIUC was because of the campus: I just loved the college-town feel of the campus and everyone I met said really good things about their experience here too.

What are your passions outside of computing?
In my free time, I enjoy going on hikes, playing music, hanging out with friends and family, baking, or watching TV.

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 experience at Illinois has been late night movie nights in the dorms or going out to get frozen yogurt after exam weeks.

What has been one of your favorite experiences as a CS STAR? (For Returning CS STARS)
My favorite CS STARS experience has been getting to know other STARS through the classes and seminars last semester. I've been able to meet a lot of like-minded women through this program.

What is my most impactful college experience?

These are a few of my favorite things!
Some of my favorite things are: music, hiking, ice cream, baking, movies, TexMex, and reading.

Research Description

Biography
My name is Sahana Sankar and I am a sophomore at UIUC studying Computer Science. I was born in Austin, Texas. In the future, I'm interested in working in the intersection between AI and Bioinformatics. Specifically, my aim is to improve cancer detection models to detect cancer at an early stage to increase the chances of treatment success and ultimately improve lives.