Why did you choose to study at WPI? 

I was attracted to WPI by its hands-on style of learning through projects and The WPI Plan, which emphasizes experience, teamwork, and addressing problems in the real world. The emphasis on interdisciplinary projects allows students to apply theory to practice in meaningful contexts. The Interactive Qualifying Project (IQP) stood out as a unique opportunity to tackle global challenges at the intersection of technology and society. WPI also fosters a supportive and tight-knit community to help students grow both personally and professionally. This combination made WPI a great place for me to pursue my education.

How are you involved with the WPI community? 

I am actively involved as a media assistant at The Global Lab, a peer learning assistant for the math department, and a peer tutor for the Academic Resources Center. Working at The Global Lab allows me to support faculty and student projects related to media while also providing a creative break from my computer science studies. I also enjoy teaching and helping others, which is why I work as a grader for the math department and tutor for introductory math and computer science courses at the tutoring center. These roles have been rewarding, allowing me to contribute to the community while strengthening my own skills.

What’s your favorite thing about WPI? 

One of my favorite things about WPI is being surrounded by intellectually motivated people who have a genuine passion for learning. The collaborative atmosphere pushes everyone to think critically, solve complex problems, and constantly improve. Whether in classes, project teams, or casual conversations, there’s a shared excitement for innovation and discovery. I love that students here are not just focused on grades but on truly understanding and applying what they learn. This drive creates an inspiring environment where curiosity and creativity thrive.

Do you have a faculty or staff mentor? 

Professor Steve McCauley, Professor Seth Tuler, and Varun Bhat at The Global Lab have guided me in my work, encouraging me to create high-quality content and helping me understand the process of project-based work. Their support has pushed me to improve both my technical and creative skills. Additionally, my advisor in the tutoring center, Lakeya Almeida, has played a key role in shaping my approach to tutoring. She has helped me refine my teaching methods to better support students, making my work as a tutor more effective and rewarding.

How has WPI’s project-based learning influenced your education? 

Project-based learning at WPI has helped me apply theoretical concepts in meaningful ways, making learning more engaging and practical. For example, at The Global Lab, I’ve worked on media-related projects that challenged me to think creatively and adapt to new tools. Additionally, collaborating on group projects in my computer science courses has strengthened my ability to work in teams, communicate effectively, and tackle complex challenges.