Paloma Pichardo

Year in School
Sophomore

Major

Research Interests

Research Mentor

Research/Engagement Experience

Interests

Project Title

How did I get interested in Computer Science?
I took my first computer science course during my junior year of high school and fell in love with it! I changed my planned major and never looked back.

What social interests matter to me?

Why did you choose Illinois?
I chose Illinois because it offers a competitive computer science program within the setting of a state school. It provides exposure to diverse perspectives and opportunities to grow beyond engineering, both academically and personally.

What are your passions outside of computing?
I am very passionate about special education and special needs ministry–I have been volunteering at a summer camp for individuals with disabilities for the past six years and was on full-time staff this past summer.

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 was working on a project for Engineering Open House and getting to present it to students and families!

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!
Running, sushi, and the movie Fantastic Mr. Fox

Research Description

Biography
Paloma Pichardo is a sophomore majoring in Computer Science and minoring in Business. On campus, she is the Marketing Director of Black, [Underrepresented], Indigenous, Latinos in Tech (B[U]ILT) and is passionate about increasing minority representation in computing. She is also a CS124 Assistant Tutor and an active member of the Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society. In her free time, she enjoys running, trying new restaurants, and volunteering in children's ministry at her church.