2025 Undergraduate Student Awards

Xinting Jiang
Computer Engineering

Jeremy Shen
Electrical Engineering

“I work in Professor Robert Hovden’s lab where I study 2-dimensional quantum materials using in-situ transmission electron microscopy. I am interested in probing exotic phase transitions in charge ordered materials for novel computing devices and understanding disordered quantum states. My work has been awarded at the annual Microscopy and Microanalysis meeting and published in Nature Communications and Applied Physics Letters. I will cherish the friends and memories I made as a member of Triangle Engineering Fraternity. This summer, I will be joining Dr. Ismail El Baggari at the Rowland Institute at Harvard. I will be staying at Michigan for my Master’s degree in ECE via SUGS, and I plan to pursue a PhD with a focus on device physics.”

Kushal Sodum
Computer Science

“I am a Computer Science major with a passion for AI and robotics. When I’m not on North Campus, I work as a software developer for MDining, creating automation tools to streamline operations. I also help students learn more about the fundamentals of machine learning as part of the MSAIL Admin Team. In the Hybrid Dynamic Robotics Lab, I conducted research on deep learning and computer vision for an autonomous blimp. My favorite part of Michigan is the incredible number of opportunities available and the brilliant, driven community that constantly pushes me to learn and grow. After graduation, I plan to continue my education in the SUGS program at Michigan. I will pursue a graduate degree in Computer Science.”

Yang Lan
Electrical Engineering

“I am a third-year Electrical Engineering Undergraduate and a 2nd-year Research Assistant in Professor Di Liang’s Large-Scale Integrated Photonics (LSIP) Group. At LSIP group, I have collaborated on innovative research proposals and projects such as designing silicon photonics neural networks that significantly reduce chip size and power consumption, and coarse wavelength division multiplexing (CWDM) structure as a part of new PDK development. My research on photonic neural networks has been accepted for oral presentation at the 2025 IEEE Silicon Photonics Conference in London, UK next month, one of the premier international conferences in integrated photonics. One of my favorite courses at UMich is ECE 598 Special Topics in Advanced Integrated Photonic Circuits, which ties together the insights I gained from courses such as EECS 320, 429 and 434. My goal is to pursue a Ph.D. degree. Ultimately, I am dedicated to advancing integrated photonics for optical interconnect, computing, sensing and quantum technologies while inspiring future generations of engineers and researchers.”

Tyson Lin
Computer Engineering

“At Michigan, I’ve had the privilege of working with Professor K. Alex Shorter, developing bio-kinematic tracking tags for cetaceans. Beyond research, my time here has been transformative—especially discovering Christianity and embracing a faith that has deeply shaped my life and purpose. I’m grateful to God for the opportunities I’ve had: learning, growing, and contributing to meaningful work alongside incredible mentors and peers. Go Blue!”

Itamar Pres
Computer Science

“I’m currently completing my BSE in Computer Science with a minor in Mathematics. My research here has been an exciting journey focused on AI safety and interpretability, where I have been fortunate enough to present my findings at leading machine learning conferences such as ICML and NeurIPS. My previous projects have centered around understanding why language models exhibit toxic behaviors and evaluating the effectiveness of current interventions aimed at controlling their behaviors. Outside of academics, I’ve actively engaged with campus life as the previous president of the Effective Altruism group and enjoy going on long runs with MRUN. Over the summers I have worked on various projects. For example, one summer I secured an Effective Altruism Infrastructure Grant to build an application to increase transparency in global risk assessments. Additionally, I’ve had rewarding internship experiences at the Krueger AI Safety Lab at Cambridge and the Physics of Intelligence lab at Harvard. In the future, I plan on pursuing a PhD in Machine Learning.”

Naman Kabra
Electrical Engineering

“I’ve been deeply involved in the Michigan Solar Car Team, first as a Race Electrical Engineer and now as the Business Director, leading sponsorship efforts and managing the team’s financial operations. One of my proudest moments was helping the team secure its 10th national championship, dedicating countless hours to troubleshooting electrical systems and optimizing solar arrays. Beyond Solar Car, I am a research assistant at the Applied Optoelectronics and Photonics Lab, where I study thermal conductivity in ultrathin polymers. I have also contributed to sustainability initiatives as an intern with the Office of Campus Sustainability. Some of my most memorable experiences have come from late nights in the Wilson Center, problem-solving with my team, and embracing challenges in engineering, business, and leadership.”

David McDermott
Computer Science

“I am a Computer Science and Interdisciplinary Physics double major, taking classes spanning from Operating Systems to Methods of Theoretical Physics. As a sophomore, I founded QuantUM, the University’s first and only club for students interested in quantum science and quantum computing. As president of QuantUM, I have grown the club to a community of almost 400 members, hosted a hackathon in partnership with IBM, and met dozens of bright and passionate classmates pursuing careers in emerging technology. I am also a member of Wolverine Sports Analytics, Traders at Michigan, the University of Michigan Programming Team, and Kappa Theta Pi, where I have learned invaluable technical skills, discovered new interests in a variety of different fields, and made friends whom I look forward to seeing every day. My time at Michigan has provided me with resources and opportunities far beyond what I imagined existed before college. While I arrived on campus as a freshman planning on studying political science and devoted to Policy Debate, I quickly fell in love with computer science and technology through the vast array of opportunities to learn and apply new skills. From the endless number of student clubs and project teams to the community of peers and alumni with experience in every area one could imagine, I am so thankful for all the tools Michigan gave me to realize my love for computer science and discover its numerous potential applications.”

Summer Parise
Computer Engineering

“I’m a junior in computer engineering and am on the reigning national champion cheer team here at UMich. I am also a part of Club Gymnastics and a sister of Zeta Tau Alpha. After graduation I plan to continue my education by getting my MSE in electrical and computer engineering at the best university in the world (Michigan). My past three years at Michigan have been nothing short of a dream. I’ve been able to learn so much from prototyping the best mac and cheese cup in E100 Food Engineering to how to build an AI Neural Network in EECS 442 Computer Vision. I’ve been fortunate enough to complete my schooling while being a part of the UMich cheer team cheering on the sidelines while our football team won a national title and running into the waters of Daytona as cheer claimed their own. I’m honored to have been given this service award and to give back to the school that has given so much to me.”

Ryan Davis
Computer Engineering

“I am a second-year Computer Engineering student. Outside of my coursework, I co-founded a student ticket resale platform (MaizeTix), that has processed over $200,000 in U-M student ticket transactions since launching this past August. I am very grateful for the opportunities that Michigan has provided me, and excited to continue to find ways to apply my learning and make a difference.”

Naman Kabra
Electrical Engineering

“I’ve been deeply involved in the Michigan Solar Car Team, first as a Race Electrical Engineer and now as the Business Director, leading sponsorship efforts and managing the team’s financial operations. One of my proudest moments was helping the team secure its 10th national championship, dedicating countless hours to troubleshooting electrical systems and optimizing solar arrays. Beyond Solar Car, I am a research assistant at the Applied Optoelectronics and Photonics Lab, where I study thermal conductivity in ultrathin polymers. I have also contributed to sustainability initiatives as an intern with the Office of Campus Sustainability. Some of my most memorable experiences have come from late nights in the Wilson Center, problem-solving with my team, and embracing challenges in engineering, business, and leadership.”

Caleb Qiu
Computer Science

“I have been involved with various clubs at U-M, such as MECC Consulting Group, Michigan Hackers, and Michigan Investment Group. I have enjoyed contributing to the communities at these clubs and value all the relationships I have built. My favorite classes here include EECS 491 and EECS 483. Looking forward, I will be working as a software engineer upon graduation.”

Eric Barbieri
Computer Engineering

“While at U-M, I have gained valuable engineering and research experience. My research in the Quantum Optics Lab is focused on integrated photonics and quantum information science. I work on creating dielectric structures that guide or modulate light to facilitate light-atom interactions. This kind of technology can help miniaturize atomic sensors or can be used to generate remote entanglement for distributed quantum computing. During a summer internship I also contributed to a project related to quantum key distribution, a strategy for sharing a secret cryptographic key whose security is guaranteed by quantum mechanics. Outside of my research, I am a part of the Autonomous Robotic Vehicle Team where I am a member of the Embedded Systems subteam, and I am a senator and member of the Academic Affairs Committee in the Engineering Student Government.”

Evan Marcus
Computer Science

“In my time at U-M I’ve gotten to do so many amazing things. I’ve gotten to work with the most amazing team of IAs and lecturers this school has to offer, teaching discussion sections in EECS 183 for the last three years. I’ve taken singing, drawing, dancing, acting, writing, film, and foreign language classes through the LSA and STAMPS, and it was through the CS program that I found my passion for game development, under the tutelage of Professor Yarger. My team won the F24 EECS 494 video game showcase with our game, “Pick It Up!”, which lead me to my current proudest accomplishment: working to build a brand new 3D interactive art and animation course with Professor Yarger. This course represents everything a multidisciplinary student like myself was looking for when I came to this school, and I hope others can find as much joy taking the class as I’ve found helping build it. I’m hoping to continue my foray into game development and 3D art, as well as explore ways that I can continue to teach. It hasn’t been easy to get what I was hoping for out of this school, and I’ve had a lot of disappointment. But when I really worked at it, when I sought out people who wanted to help and see me grow, and when I supported others in turn, I managed to do some pretty amazing things that I could never have done anywhere else. I’ve directed a short film, made a pretty awesome video game, helped build a college course, taught over 180 undergrads, and shaken hands with Randall Munroe. Pretty good for four years.”

Guanren Tao
Electrical Engineering

“I am a sophomore majoring in Electrical Engineering. Under Professors Albert Liu and Sasha Cai Lesher-Pérez, my research on electroporation devices aimed to enhance transfection efficiency and minimize cellular damage. My contributions included characterizing nanopore electroporation device resistance, analyzing electrode–electrolyte interface effects, and developing data analysis programs that improved experimental precision and efficiency. My proudest accomplishment was designing a movable-electrode potentiostat integrating microscopy, electrochemical measurements, and precise motor control, advancing spatial analysis of electroporation. Outside academics, I enjoy badminton and cooking. Moving forward, my goal is to research analog integrated circuit design, driven by my passion for technological innovation.”

Saad Alrazzi
Electrical Engineering

“I am a second-year Electrical Engineering student with a minor in Biochemistry. I am an Instructional Aide for EECS 215: Introduction to Electronic Circuits and a Laboratory Assistant at the Bioelectronic Vision Lab, focusing on the development of user-centric wearable technologies. I am the recipient of the William Harvey Seeley Prize, Lou R. Marguerite M. Crandall Scholarship, Regents Merit Scholarship, National Merit Scholarship, and a member of the 2024 BI SURi program, and I serve as Technical Skills Director for M-HEAL, organizing workshops and offering technical consultation for global health related engineering projects. I am the Electrical Lead for Solar Fridge, coordinating the design and implementation of a solar-powered vaccine storage system for deployment in the Dominican Republic, as well as a member of the Michigan Synthetic Biology Team, developing predictive models for water remediation in the Huron River Watershed. I am a nationally certified Emergency Medical Technician, and served as a STEM mentor for primary education.”

Jhingram Advika
Computer Science

Toluni Ghandi-Olaoye
Computer Engineering

“I am a junior studying Computer Engineering at the University of Michigan. I serve as the Conference Planning Chair for Color Coded, where I successfully raised $35,000 to send 35 students to the Afrotech Conference. I am also a member of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). This past summer, I interned at Boeing as a Flight Test Engineering Intern, gaining hands-on experience in aerospace technology and testing. Through my involvement in student organizations and internships, I am passionate about fostering opportunities for underrepresented students in tech and advancing my skills in engineering, robotics, and embedded systems.”

Sydney Scott
Electrical Engineering

“My experiences here at the University of Michigan have been some of the most thrilling times of my life. The community I’ve found here has been incredibly supportive, and through all the ups and downs, I always know there’s someone who has my back. Studying electrical engineering has been a rewarding challenge, both in the classroom and through hands-on experiences. I’m proud to be part of clubs and organizations like SPARK Electric Motorbike, the Offshore Wind Turbine team, and M-STEM Academics. These opportunities have allowed me to grow my expertise and gain practical experience through internships, such as when I tested electrical panels for substations that supply power across the country. Along the way, I’ve become more independent and learned how to balance academics with personal well-being. One piece of advice I give is to envision your goals—you’ll most likely achieve them if you’re aiming in the direction you want to go. I’m excited to continue my journey in electrical engineering and see where the future takes me. Go Blue!”

Prisha Agnihotri
Computer Science

“During my time at U-M, I’ve immersed myself in both technical and outreach opportunities that have shaped my growth as an engineer. I’m part of various clubs, namely SWE and CLAWS. I spend a lot of my time volunteering with kids, especially enjoying teaching them how to code through my officer position at SWE. I have also enjoyed being an IA for ENGR 100 Robotics Mechanisms. Looking back at my contributions to various technical projects and outreach initiatives, I’m proud of my growth as both an engineer and mentor, and I am excited to continue developing my skills while creating pathways for others to discover their passion for computer science.”

Megha Jacob
Electrical Engineering

“During my time at U-M, I have been able to get involved with many different organizations. I have been able to work on developing medical devices for extracorporeal life support, developing systems with NASA through BLiSS, and volunteering at the hospital, which have helped me get the most out of my time here. After graduation, I plan to go to graduate school before doing research in medical device development.”

Davis Sheppard
Computer Engineering

“It has been an incredible privilege to attend Umich. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with so many highly motivated and knowledgeable individuals through my course work and student organizations like the Michigan Neuroprosthetics Club. I have also thoroughly enjoyed my time as an ECE peer advisor and as a member of the Michigan Club Tennis team. I look forward to pursuing a Master’s in Computer Architecture through the SUGS program in the Fall.”

Amy Liu
Electrical Engineering

“At U-M, I’ve had the opportunity to explore electrical engineering through classes, internships, and extracurriculars. I’ve especially enjoyed my time as an instructional aide for EECS 216 (Signals and Systems); I’ve also served as Editor-in-Chief for the University of Michigan Undergraduate Research Journal (UMURJ) and been a part of the embedded hardware subteam on Michigan Mars Rover. After graduation, I plan to pursue a master’s degree through the ECE SUGS program.”

Somya Valecha
Computer Engineering

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Krithika Venkatasubramanian
Computer Science

Sophie Chen
Computer Science

Blake Mischley
Computer Science

Amy Wei
Computer Science

Andy Yao
Computer Science

Heami Oh
Computer Science

“In my time at U-M, I’ve enjoyed exploring a variety of subjects in my coursework, pursuing minors in Linguistics and Asian Studies alongside my computer science classes. Additionally, my academic and creative writing have been published in the Michigan Journal of Asian Studies and the Hel[icon] arts magazine. Through these experiences, I’ve cultivated my interests in history, literature, and writing while also growing as a software engineer. I’m grateful to have been part of U of M’s vibrant and supportive community over the past four years. I’m excited to be studying for a Master’s degree in Europe next year as a Roger M. Jones Fellow.”

Advait Iyer
Computer Engineering

“I was a loyal Domino’s and Subway customer for most of my time in Ann Arbor. I also frequently patroned Ahmo’s Pierpont (RIP), Bursley Dining, No Thai(s), and M-36 (whose baristas knew me as Frodo B. on Snackpass). When not at these establishments, I helped teach EECS 270/470, played squash for UMich, hung out at V1@Michigan, judged MHacks, did research at the CE Lab, and camped at the Ugli/Dude. Great experience, would highly recommend. I’m currently working at Tesla. I want to work on tech that isn’t evil. Michigan was a great time. I am fortunate to have had many unique ‘college’ experiences, such as teaching courses and participating in research efforts.
I will miss running into friends on blue buses, shooting the air in dining halls, recording music in the Ugli studio, walking up to friends’ apartments whenever I felt like it, watching football/soccer matches…the list goes on. Ann Arbor was good to me. I will remember it fondly. Go Blue.”