Meet our May 2026 Graduating Student Award winners
During the Department of Computer Science recognition ceremony on Friday, May 1, nine of our accomplished graduating seniors will be honored with Graduating Student Awards from the College of Engineering and Applied Science.
Read on for more on what graduating means to them, how CU Boulder helped prepare them for what's next or their best pieces of advice for current and future computer science students.
Academic Engagement and Research Awards
Post-graduation plans: Pursuing a PhD in computer science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Make the most of the remaining four years; they go by quickly!"
Academic Engagement and Research Awards
Post-graduation plans: Pursuing a PhD at the University of Iowa
Throughout my time at CU, I lived at home, as a way to see family and support myself as an autistic person. Living at home promoted my stability and allowed me to engage more deeply at CU. I volunteered and led a club (Math COSMOS), and I engaged in community service. However, in my last year, I felt ready to establish my independence. Having my bachelor's means I can continue to the next step, to live on my own and explore new places. I am proud to have my autism and an excited to show it to the world!"
Community Impact Award
Post-graduation plans: Starting a tech job in Boulder
CU helped to grow as a person, as a computer scientist, and as a leader these past four years -- all of which make me feel more confident now stepping away from academia and out into something new for my future. I have appreciated my time here so much, and CU will forever have a special place in my heart!"
Academic Engagement Award
I’ve learned that the most meaningful progress doesn’t come from one-off moments, but from building on small wins, learning from the people around you, and growing a little each time."
Research Award
Post-graduation plans: Summer research at the Institute for Pure and Applied Mathematics at the University of California Los Angeles, before starting a PhD mechanical and aerospace engineering at UC San Diego
At CU, I started doing research through (UCLA's Research in Industrial Projects for Students program) and continued working with faculty on applied math and engineering problems. Those mentorships allowed me to publish my work, present at conferences, and build connections in the field, which helped prepare me for my graduate school and fellowship applications."
Community Impact Award
Post-graduation: Joining Colorado energy company Tallgrass Energy
CU prepared me in ways I didn't expect. The classroom taught me to be a critical thinker and a diligent worker — skills I'll carry into every project at Tallgrass. But it was clubs like the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers and the people I connected with that helped me grow into a better person. Those relationships and experiences shaped my values, my perspective, and how I show up for others."
Academic Engagement and Research Awards
Post-graduation plans: Pursuing a master's degree in robotics at the University of Pennsylvania, with plans to continue to a PhD in autonomous systems
I spent a lot of time thinking about my dad’s journey while I was up late studying. He moved here with no formal education and spent years working jobs that were physically demanding just so I wouldn’t have to struggle the same way he did. Because of him, I was able to focus on my books and pursue interests that wouldn’t have been on the table for him. So when people ask what this graduation means, I tell them it’s not really about my own success — it’s about honoring his. It’s my way of making sure all those years of sacrifice turned into something real, and that the door he opened for me stays open."
Community Impact and Culture Impact Awards
Post-graduation plans: Joining Lunar Outpost in Golden, Colorado, as a robotics engineering intern
Remember that you don't have to be perfect to start. You will always fail at things — even when you rehearse, even when you prepare, even when you plan and plan and plan. When you're faced with uncertainty, remember it's an inevitability of life, not an assessment of your worth. Let those moments of fear pass through you without tightening your grip."
Academic Engagement Award
Post-graduation plans: Pursuing a PhD in applied math at CU Boulder
Through my professors here, I have been consistently inspired to deepen my knowledge and just enjoy myself in applied mathematics. My time as both a research assistant and course assistant has allowed me to continue pursuing my passion while also sharing it with others."