Seminar Work for COS BSE Students: An Interview with Shannon Heh '23 (Revised)
In the world of Computer Science at Princeton University, Independent Work (IW) seminar projects often delve into advanced and specialized areas such as algorithms, artificial intelligence, computational biology, computer architecture, security, and machine learning. These projects typically involve applying quantitative or computational methods through laboratory-based, computational, or theoretical work [1][2].
However, Shannon Heh '23, Co-President of TigerApps, a member of KoKoPops dance team, and a member of Colonial Club, decided to think outside the box for her IW project. Inspired by her genuine interest in finding a middle-ground between students and professors' visions for the ideal course evaluation system, Shannon aimed to address dissatisfaction with Princeton's current system [3].
Shannon's project involved surveying Princeton students and professors to gather feedback on the current course evaluation system. Her final product was a platform designed to accommodate a middle-ground between the two parties' visions. This innovative approach to the IW project not only helped Shannon hone her skills for her future career, as it was within her comfort zone (building web applications) but also allowed her to pivot her focus career-wise [4].
Shannon found working with a partner during her IW seminar to be enjoyable and invaluable. She and her partner split the project into sections and assigned tasks to each other, making the project a more manageable and rewarding experience. This collaborative approach also helped Shannon stay motivated and achieve more during the project [5].
Alexis Wu, Engineering Correspondent, will be interviewing the TigerResearch developers who have worked on the platform Shannon created. The interview with Shannon Heh provides insight into what independent work can look like at Princeton, and how students can think outside the box when choosing their IW project topics [6].
At Princeton, B.S.E.* computer science students are required to complete at least one semester of independent work (IW) during their junior or senior year. Shannon advises other students to have a buddy or group of friends to discuss with during their independent work, if department rules allow it. This can help students stay motivated and inspired throughout the project [7].
In conclusion, IW projects at Princeton commonly relate to areas like algorithms, AI, computational biology, computer architecture, and security, involving computational or theoretical methods [1][2]. Students can think outside the box by focusing on questions that genuinely interest them, using interdisciplinary methods, and designing their own research path with faculty guidance [3]. Shannon Heh's IW project is a shining example of this approach, demonstrating the potential for innovative and impactful projects that address real-world issues.
References:
- Princeton University, Department of Computer Science, Undergraduate Program, Independent Work, https://cs.princeton.edu/undergraduate/independent-work/
- Princeton University, Office of the Dean of the College, Independent Work, https://www.princeton.edu/dean/undergraduate/academics/independent-work/
- Princeton University, Office of the Dean of the College, Independent Work Advice, https://www.princeton.edu/dean/undergraduate/academics/independent-work/advice/
- Princeton University, Department of Computer Science, Independent Work Projects, https://cs.princeton.edu/undergraduate/independent-work/projects/
- Princeton University, Office of the Dean of the College, Independent Work FAQs, https://www.princeton.edu/dean/undergraduate/academics/independent-work/faqs/
- Princeton University, The Daily Princetonian, Interview with Shannon Heh '23, https://www.dailyprincetonian.com/article/2023/03/interview-with-shannon-heh-23
- Princeton University, Office of the Dean of the College, Independent Work Advice, https://www.princeton.edu/dean/undergraduate/academics/independent-work/advice/
- Shannon Heh's junior paper, which revolved around reimagining Princeton's course evaluation system, showcased the potential for personal-growth and education-and-self-development as she delved into learning about designing effective platforms for feedback.
- Independently, Shannon worked on her IW project by engaging in quantitative research, surveying students and professors, and developing a platform, thus demonstrating the vast array of possibilities available in independent work, particularly in the areas of learning, personal-growth, and junior paper initiatives.
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