Yoshee Jain

Year in School
Senior

Major
Computer Science

Research Interests

Research Mentor

Research/Engagement Experience

Interests

Project Title

How did I get interested in Computer Science?
Coming from a family of engineers, since early childhood, I have enjoyed the clickety-clack of keys on the keyboard. When I was selected to visit NASA, it made me realize the impact of technology on our world. Soon, I discovered my passion for programming. It teaches me perseverance and discipline. Various projects, internships, and competitions during the entire learning journey helped me delve into the applications of computer science and math in the real world and developed an impetus to believe that technology can help achieve a better, safer, and more sustainable future for all.

What social interests matter to me?

Why did you choose Illinois?
I chose Illinois because of its vibrant and supportive community, both academically and socially. The wide variety of RSOs made it easy to find like-minded peers and build lasting friendships, fostering a sense of belonging from the start. The proximity of Research Park offered unique opportunities to work on industry-driven projects and gain hands-on experience alongside my studies. Illinois’ highly regarded CS program was known for its rigorous curriculum and global reputation, which would ensure that I was challenged and well-prepared for my future career. Finally, the tight-knit campus culture within a classic college town creates an environment that blends academic excellence with a strong sense of community.

What are your passions outside of computing?
I'm happiest when I'm exploring. I love to travel and immerse myself in new places and new cultures, making friends around the globe along the way. I also find joy in creating DIY art. Making small keychains and ornaments using resin and craft embellishments allows me to express my creativity and bring joy to others. Curating heartfelt and dedicated gifts for mentors, friends, and family as tokens of gratitude has strengthened relationships and created cherished memories!

What has been one of your favorite experiences at Illinois that you would like to share with prospective students? (For Continuing UIUC Students)
I have had multi-faceted experiences, and thus choosing any one of them would be me being biased. Therefore, every experience is a learning that weaves me into the kind of person I am and want to be, which leads me to believe that I am not a sum of my circumstances but a product of the decisions I make for myself.

What has been one of your favorite experiences as a CS STAR? (For Returning CS STARS)
Being able to present my work in front of other undergrads and spread word about research!

What is my most impactful college experience?

These are a few of my favorite things!
Dancing, writing poems, sipping coffee, and hanging out with friends and family!

Research Description

Biography
Yoshee Jain is a sophomore in Computer Science at the Grainger College of Engineering. As a self-motivated learner, from innovating to teaching and many activities in between, she has dipped her toes in all of them. She has thrived leading her teams, testing her creativity, and developing prototypes. On campus, she is involved with various RSOs, including Girls Who Code, Open Source @ Illinois, AI@UIUC, EC, and ACM, to inspire girls to take up STEM fields as careers. Being a member of such organizations in addition to her participants in research labs allows her to dive into experiential learning and stimulates constructive knowledge. She is confident that her learnings from this program will empower her to benefit the world by enabling her to combine her technical background and humanitarian spirit to pay forward.