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Elisa Zhang

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Finalist

General information

Hobbies & Interests

  • Dance
  • Research
  • Public Policy
  • Coding And Computer Science
  • Community Service And Volunteering
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Coffee

Reading

  • Academic
  • Fantasy
  • Science Fiction
  • Realistic Fiction

I read books multiple times a week.

Bio

I am interested in the intersection between technology and public policy. Specifically, I want to use my expertise as an artificial intelligence and cybersecurity researcher to help governments develop secure and ethical technology. I was admitted to Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), so I will likely pursue these goals at MIT. These past three years, I've conducted computer science research with George Mason University. I presented my research projects as the only high schooler at two top-tier international conferences in academia. Additionally, I was selected as a 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search Finalist (top 40 nationwide in the most prestigious STEM competition for high school seniors) for my research on automated code repair. I have also conducted AI policy research with a state government, and led an intern team to propose an AI training data transparency bill which has been filed in the 2025 Legislative Session. In addition, I've won numerous math awards, such as qualifying for the American Invitational Mathematics Examination 3 times and winning 6th place in the Mathleague's National Sprint Round. Due to my outstanding accomplishments, I've been chosen as a candidate for the US Presidential Scholars Program, established by the Executive Order of the President. In the future, I hope to become a professor who creates widely applicable computing systems that align with public policy and ethical principles. Ultimately, through my research, I aim to inform and advise government agencies in solving diverse challenges for technology users across the nation.

Education

Dougherty Valley High

High School

2021 – 2025

Miscellaneous

Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Majors of interest:
Computer Science, Mathematics and Computer Science
Desired degree modality:
In-Person, Full-Time
Medical school interest:
No

Career

  • I was a paid research intern. I competed with my research lab in the AI Cyber Challenge National Semifinals and published a first author research poster at a top-ranked cybersecurity conference.

    Computer & Network Security · George Mason University

    Jan 2024 – Jan 2024

Miscellaneous

Dream career field:
Computer Software
Dream career goals:
I hope to become a professor who collaborates with the government to ensure cutting-edge technology is deployed in a secure and ethical way.
Work experience:
0 years
Has nursing license:
No

Future Interests

  • Politics
  • Volunteering
  • Entrepreneurship
Elisa Zhang Student Profile | Bold.org