HaoKun Wang
HaoKun Wang
Year in School
Junior
Major
Statistics & Computer Science
Year of Participation in STARS
- Fall 2026
Research Interests
Research Mentor
Research/Engagement Experience
Interests
Project Title
How did I get interested in Computer Science?
I became interested in computer science through mathematical modeling competitions, where I used data analysis and statistics to solve problems. Over time, I grew more curious about how software systems collect, process, and turn data into useful tools.
What social interests matter to me?
Why did you choose Illinois?
Outside of computing, I enjoy playing soccer, and exploring different cultures through food and travel.
What are your passions outside of computing?
Outside of computing, I am genuinely interested in economics. I love understanding how resources are allocated and how systems influence human choices on a larger scale. It has taught me to think about trade-offs and long-term impacts. I believe combining this perspective with my computing skills allows me to think about problems more holistically.
What has been one of your favorite experiences at Illinois that you would like to share with prospective students? (For Continuing UIUC Students)
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!
A few of my favorite things are playing soccer and frisbee, playing video games, discovering new music and food, and spending time with friends.
Research Description
Biography
HaoKun Wang is a CS + Statistics student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign interested in agentic AI and software engineering. His interest in computing began through mathematical modeling competitions and grew through building backend systems, database applications, and a configurable genetics simulation engine at NCSA. He also enjoys mentoring students and exploring how technology can solve practical problems. Outside of computing, Chuck enjoys soccer, frisbee, video games, music, food, and spending time with friends.