Victoria Prokopenko ’28
My journey toward becoming a computer science major began my fall semester of freshman year. I entered Pomona intending to major in cognitive science, and it was through the Cog Sci introductory major requirements that I discovered my interest in computer science. I realized the avenue through which I can contribute to inducing real change and creating a tangible impact is computer science (CS).
The core of my interest and passion is people and cognition. I came to college with the intention of learning how to develop creative solutions that expand people’s access to tools and opportunities they might otherwise never have had. CS has been giving me the instruments to realize this passion. Once I took my first CS class at Pomona, it clicked: computer science is how I can actually build the tools I used to only daydream about—tools shaped by real human behaviors, not just what a computer finds convenient.
This is how I was led to the Human-Computer Interaction discipline. A single conversation during Professor Jingyi Li’s office hours sparked my curiosity about what HCI really was, and it eventually grew into independent research with Professors Li and Alexandra Papoutsaki on embodied musical creation in XR/VR environments through the Apple Vision Pro. My experiences through HCI research and all of the interdisciplinary classes I’ve had the chance to take across disciplines, such as Data Structures & Advanced Programming and Mind in Motion, led me to design my own HCI concentration in Cog Sci, paired with my double major in computer science.
However, what really compelled me to major in computer science is the truly welcoming aura of the department. From the kinds of relationships you forge with students through small class sizes, to the encouragement toward learning in community through group sessions or TA mentor sessions, as well as the accessibility of professors through office hours—these places are where I’ve formed most of my fondest memories and forged my strongest relationships with professors and students alike in the CS Department.
Part of my motivation for becoming a TA was to contribute more to this culture, because above all, the CS Department stands out more to me than any other due to how close knit our students and professors are. As a liaison for the department, we’ve also hosted bonding events, like cabin retreats, and professional events aimed toward helping students succeed in the industry. That's what makes the CS Department truly feel like home to me: it is there for you not only academically, but also socially and professionally. I am grateful to not only this discipline, but specifically to the kind of energy Pomona’s CS Department has cultivated in their individualized support of students through their academic career.
Chau Vu ’26
I entered Pomona with a strong passion for computer science and a desire for a liberal arts education that would let me pursue computer science while also discovering new interests and engaging in academic research. I’m grateful to say that my time here has gone beyond what I hoped for. With the freedom to take courses beyond computer science like math, economics or art, I’ve grown not only as a student but also as a thinker. I love that Pomona encourages curiosity in every direction rather than along a single path.
The highlight of my undergraduate years has been academic research. I have worked on meaningful projects and authored publications as an undergraduate, something that would not have been possible without the supportive faculty here. I have been fortunate to work closely with Professors Alexandra Papoutsaki, Jingyi Li and Anthony Clark. Exploring projects across different areas has helped me realize that my heart lies in HCI, specifically on developing human-AI systems for human health and well-being. What means the most to me is that my professors truly believe in me. They challenge me to grow as an independent researcher while also encouraging me every step of the way. That balance of guidance and trust has been incredibly empowering and has shaped my confidence not only as a researcher but also as a software engineer. The critical thinking and problem-solving skills I have developed through academic research extend naturally into real-world industry work, preparing me to tackle challenges during my internships.
Most importantly, Pomona’s Computer Science Department feels like home. The department’s building has whiteboards everywhere, so you always see students working together, drawing ideas out and chatting with professors and mentors who are always around and happy to help. People are incredibly smart, but also kind, collaborative and never competitive. It feels like a place where you can learn and have fun all at once! That sense of support and curiosity is what makes studying computer science at Pomona so special to me.
Aldo Ruiz Parra ’25
My first exposure to computer science was in high school through classes where I learned the basic foundations of computer science and block coding. This sparked my interest in exploring technology, leading me to join my high school’s robotics program. Arriving at Pomona College, I intended to explore different academic disciplines, but I kept computer science in the back of my mind. It was not until I finished Introduction to Computer Science during my first semester that I discovered that I wanted to major in computer science. The structure of the assignments and challenging course nature not only honed my problem-solving skills but also left me with an insatiable curiosity to delve deeper into the field.
One of the factors that led to my decision to major in computer science was the supportive faculty and the nurturing learning environment. Through office hours, I built meaningful connections with CS professors who provided valuable guidance and support throughout my academic journey. Through mentor sessions, I had the opportunity to connect with other students, both peers and mentors, which enriched my learning experience as we tackled problems together. These positive experiences and relationships allowed me to excel in classes and stay curious while learning advanced concepts in computer science.
Another aspect that attracted me to computer science was the diverse range of opportunities offered. The department arranges the curriculum in a way that strives to balance practical applications and theoretical foundations. There are a variety of electives, from AI to human-computer interaction, that allow us to explore our passions. My favorite part about the discipline is the various subfields and industries one can break into with computer science. Some of those subfields include cybersecurity, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, computer networking and much more. Whether you aspire to pursue your passions in the industry or graduate school, computer science equips you with a well-rounded education and problem-solving skills that prepares you well for a multitude of career opportunities.