Where are you from? Where were you before you joined CliMAS in Illinois?
I am from Naperville, IL. Before joining CliMAS at Illinois minoring in atmospheric sciences, I started at the University of Illinois majoring in Aerospace Engineering which I will graduate from in May of 2024. I am excited to continue my education in CliMAS, pursuing a Master’s in atmospheric sciences starting August of 2024.
Tell us about what you’re wanting to focus on in your studies:
In my Master’s, I plan to focus on studying tropical cyclones and cyclogenesis with machine learning with Professor Zhuo Wang. I currently work on a tropical cyclone climatology project with her.
Tell us about what drew you to the University and our CliMAS Department:
I have always been fascinated with physical processes in the sky, which led me to aerospace engineering at Illinois. Throughout my studies, I became increasingly concerned with the aerospace industry’s contributions to climate change and decided to pursue a minor in atmospheric sciences and research relating to climate change. In my minor coursework and research, I found CliMAS to be an encouraging and positive community to pursue my academic interests.
What do you think is the most important weather-related issue right now?
The most important weather-related issue right now, in my opinion, is working to understand how a changing climate may affect weather patterns. Incorporating emerging technologies such as AI and machine learning will be an important part of this process.
What activities and hobbies do you have outside of school?
Outside of school, I enjoy oil painting, reading, and watching anime. On occasion, I like to take my telescope out and stargaze.
What are your career goals?
I am currently most interested in pursuing a career in research. I am also interested in a career in weather data analytics. In a career, I hope to apply my technical programming skills in a way that can help benefit climate, weather, and society.
Bonus: What’s your favorite song/tv show right now?
My favorite TV show right now is Dragon Ball Z – I’m re-watching it as it was one of my childhood favorites!