This summer, more than 80 students and faculty kept campus abuzz with the hum of hands-on field and lab research. The Seaver Summer Research Community’s work covered topics in biology, health and human sciences, mechanical engineering, computer science and more disciplines across the college. With such a diversity of research projects to choose from, we spoke to some of the students about their unique summer experience. Today, we spotlight computer science major Alex Alvarez ‘25, whose research was mentored by Gustavo Vejarano, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering.
Describe your research in a way that a high school student would understand it.
We’re working on a fleet of drones that can find and track wildfires without needing people to control them. My research focuses on teaching the drones how to recognize wildfires in the pictures they take during flight. When they find a wildfire, they figure out important details about it and send that information back to us. This helps us understand the fire better and predict how it will behave in the future.
Why would someone outside your field be interested in your project?
Everyone, especially Californians, knows the threat wildfires pose to property and personal well-being. Most people are interested in finding new ways to handle and manage wildfires when they happen. As someone who worked as a first responder, I know our emergency service workers want a clearer picture of how wildfires behave to manage their resources effectively.
What are some of the lessons students learn while working on research?
For students interested in science, starting out can be challenging, and completing a personal project can be tough. The valuable insight students gain from research is building on what they already know. They also learn a lot from the students they collaborate with. I’m a CS major, but many in my team are engineering students. Learning about their work and how to integrate your own broadens your understanding of how your interests apply to larger projects. You’ll also build on your abilities to work in a team and efficiently communicate your ideas.
How does doing research complement coursework?
Learning about AI and Machine Learning has been fun, but getting to apply that knowledge to a real world problem has proven to be rewarding. Tackling these problems encourages you to explore unique methods and technologies that go beyond what’s taught in the classroom. I can say it’s only broadened by horizon on what I’m learning in my courses.
What advice would you give to someone on the fence about doing research?
If you’re unsure about your skills or abilities, professors understand where you are as a student are. They want to help you build on what you’re already good at and will give you assignments tailored to your strengths. Doing research is also a great opportunity to meet new people and better strengthen your network. If you’re even slightly considering research, I’d suggest diving in and giving it a try.
