Summer 2023

I remember a very interesting discussion we had in this course, relating to AI. We discussed the integrity of AI, which was especially important to me with my interest in Computer Science. There were two strong sides of the debate, one arguing that AI was innovative and efficient, while the other advocated concerns in terms of ethics and privacy. It was definitely a very intriguing discussion to have at the beginning of the course and set the tone for a memorable and enriching learning experience throughout the course.

This course embarks on a comprehensive journey to grasp the intricate emergence of the mind from physical entities. This endeavor involves a harmonious integration of diverse academic fields, including Psychology, Neuroscience, Computer Science, Linguistics, and Philosophy, providing students with a holistic perspective on the realm of cognitive science.

While the act of thinking and perceiving is a universal human experience, it offers only a limited window into the profound question of how the mind is intricately intertwined with physical entities, such as the brain. To tackle this intriguing puzzle, cognitive science unites the collective knowledge from these five disciplines. Its primary aim is to shed light on the multifaceted inner workings of the mind. 

The course is an introduction to the science of the mind and bridges the gap between our everyday subjective experiences and the scientific understanding of how the mind emerges from the physical substrate of the brain. It delves into various facets of the mind, including visual perception, attention, memory, learning, problem-solving, language, and consciousness, culminating in a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the enigmatic world of cognitive science.

My enrollment in the Cornell Cognitive Science course provided a unique perspective on the intricate workings of the human mind and the power of human-computer interactions. This deeper understanding of cognitive processes and problem-solving greatly influenced the user interface design and functionality of my “Tutorly” app, ensuring it resonates with users on a cognitive level and fulfills their educational needs effectively.

Summer 2022

In this course, we worked on a group project where we studied a real-world issue from different angles: business, government, science, society, and the environment. We chose to research microplastics, and my focus was on their environmental effects. I discovered that microplastics harm both marine life and humans, highlighting the importance of finding solutions to this global problem.

This course actively engages students in intellectually stimulating discussions and produces exceptional written work that delves deep into the intricate interplay between science, technology, and politics. The explorations lead students into the heart of current scientific controversies, resulting in a comprehensive understanding of how these urgent issues intersect with the complex realm of political dynamics. Extensive research is conducted and delivered through compelling presentations on the scientific-political concern of microplastics, showcasing a remarkable ability to analyze contemporary topics.

From the sweeping challenges of global warming to the intricate matters of citizen surveillance and healthcare reform, it has become clear that subjects within the domains of science, technology, and medicine are inherently entwined with political considerations. This course harnesses the power of contemporary scientific disputes as a means to investigate the intricate relationships between science and politics. Some of the issues discussed include the influential roles played by the military and private sector in research funding, the politics surrounding experts and their authority, the ever-evolving landscape of computer privacy and national security, and the multifaceted dynamics of environmental politics.

The Cornell Science, Politics, and Technology course broadened my horizons, helping me comprehend the complex interplay between technology and society. It instilled in me an appreciation for the ethical and political dimensions of technological innovation. This course’s insights influenced the ethical guidelines embedded in the “Tutorly” app, ensuring that it remains aligned with the values of accessibility, fairness, and inclusivity in education.

Summer 2020

In this course, I had the opportunity to work on a project where we created our own ventures. I chose to focus on improving the efficiency of Caltrains in my community by introducing high-speed bullet trains. Presenting this idea to the class was a great experience that taught me a lot about the power of innovation and technology. It made me realize how we can use these tools to make a positive impact on our lives and communities.

Designed for students with an interest in establishing new businesses or social enterprises, this hands-on course places a strong emphasis on the creation, assessment, development, and readiness for the launch of these new ventures. The participants are carefully guided through the process of conceiving and realizing their venture ideas, which they select as student teams. The course employs an innovative modular format that combines interactive lectures, concise case studies, and structured peer activities to help students explore the essential components of the new venture planning process.

For each student-led venture, the course addresses critical issues, mirroring the systematic approach of formal venture-planning processes. These issues encompass the development of a business model, customer discovery, product-market validation, thorough industry and market analysis, product or service innovation, brand development, go-to-market strategies, team formation and management, profit models, financing strategies, and legal considerations.

Throughout the course, students engage in a series of well-structured activities and assignments that align with each phase of new venture planning. They continuously refine their venture’s hypothetical business model, leveraging feedback from instructors and peers. At each stage of venture plan development, students not only become acquainted with key terms but also utilize tools that support research and decision-making. They develop a profound understanding of how each major planning activity contributes to the formal process of venture creation. Additionally, they sharpen essential professional skills such as creative problem-solving, effective communication, negotiation, project management, financial analysis, and collaborative leadership.

The entrepreneurship course taught me how to take my idea and turn it into a real product. The course’s focus on business aspects, like market validation and strategies for launching, helped me deploy the app effectively. It provided insights into branding, profit models, and financing, ensuring that “Tutorly” met the needs of its users and was accessible and fair in the world of education.