Biography

Growing up across two continents, I developed resilience, curiosity, and a commitment to excellence that continue to shape my academic journey. Born in Asella, Ethiopia, and raised in the United States, I gained a deep appreciation for both my cultural roots and the value of global perspectives. My early passion for math and science led me to participate in programs such as Science Olympiad, robotics, and LaunchCode, where I learned to apply technology to real-world problems. As a member of the Memphis MechWarriors robotics team and a participant in the Governor’s School for the Sciences and Engineering, I explored programming, electrical systems, and advanced research topics at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. These experiences inspired me to pursue Computer Science at the University of Memphis, where I served as Public Relations Chair for the National Society of Black Engineers and co-developed a voter engagement app. Now a Ph.D. student in Computer Science at Louisiana State University, my research focuses on machine learning, large language models, cybersecurity, and privacy-preserving AI. I aspire to develop ethical, transparent, and sustainable AI systems that advance technological innovation, promote social responsibility, and foster inclusive scientific collaboration in line with the Sustainable Research Pathway mission.

Academic Status

PhD Student - 2nd

Research Area/Department

Computer Science; Data Science; Machine Learning/AI

Major/Specialty

Computer Science, Specializing in Machine Learning and Cybersecurity

Degrees Earned or in Progress

Degree Earned: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from The University of Memphis, 2023. Degree in Progress: Ph.D. in Computer Science from Louisiana State University, 2028.

Academic Preparation

Deep Learning Systems, Machine Learning, Algorithm Design and Analysis, Software Engineering, Big Data Systems and Application Development, Web Security and Penetration Testing, Database Systems, Cloud and Enterprise Systems, Advanced Operating Systems, Programming Language Structures, Foundation AI

Research/Academic Interests

My research interests are also deeply rooted in machine learning, artificial intelligence, software engineering, autonomous vehicles, cloud computing, and deep learning. My current research, supervised by Dr. Aisha Ali-Gombe, is dedicated to understanding and mitigating how LLMs may memorize sensitive user data, cache inputs, and interact with third-party applications. I am developing and deploying privacy-preserving ML methods that ensure both security and fairness. I aim to protect consumers and critical infrastructures by creating robust mitigation strategies for AI systems integrated into essential real-world applications, including mobile and cloud-based platforms.

Computational and Data Science Areas

Applied Computer Science; Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Systems; Computer Science; Other Computer and Information Sciences

Motivation

I want to participate in this program and the community because it is a unique way to meet new, like-minded individuals and it is a great way to gain real-world experience. I want to be the best that I can be and the most effective way to achieve that is through mentorship! Ever since I was a child, I have always been interested in technology and computers. I really want to create innovative and unique solutions that will have a positive impact on the world one day. Pursuing my PhD in Computer Science has really opened my eyes and mind to so many opportunities and I want to take full advantage of them! I also want to give back to my community one day. With all the concepts that I will learn from this program, I will be sure to teach and share them with certain individuals in my community. I want to influence and inspire future scientists, computer scientists, engineers, innovators, and inventors! The spark of my career started when I received my very first computer when I was a child. I already knew that I was destined to work in a career involving computers, so I researched different innovators and inventors throughout history. I learned from their story and how they came to be where they are today. I want to be like them and make great contributions to society. This program will help me in my career and future aspirations and I look forward to participating in it!

Lightning Talk Title

Gaslighting Large Language Models for the Sack of Privacy

Keywords (Maximum 20 words)

machine learning; artificial intelligence; software engineering; autonomous vehicles; cloud computing; large language models; cybersecurity; privacy-preserving AI; deep learning; social computing