SoNIC

Computer Science is a rapidly growing and evolving field with a wide range of career opportunities in both academic and industrial settings. During the weeklong workshop, participants learn about a variety of state-of-the-art computing research directions happening at Cornell University and beyond, and get an opportunity to conduct a short research project. Participants will also learn about research-oriented career paths in computing, including the process of obtaining advanced degrees. The next SoNIC Summer Research Workshop will be held on July 24, 2023 – July 28, 2023 at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. If you are interested in being considered for this program, please review the flyer and information below:

  • The research workshops will focus on robotics and assistive technology. Applicants are not required to have prior experience in working with assistive technology.
  • Students who are pursuing an undergraduate or master’s degree in the computer science or engineering field are eligible to apply for the SoNIC program.
  • Although SoNIC is open to all students.
  • SoNIC applications must be submitted by March 6, 2023. Applicants will be notified of their status by April 7, 2023.
  • Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their questions to our Cornell Bowers CIS Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion team at dei-office@cis.cornell.edu.

SoNIC is funded in part by the Hopper-Dean Foundation and the National Science Foundation.

 

SONIC BENEFITS

­Learn about cutting-edge computing research.

Work with a faculty mentor from the Cornell Bowers College of Computing and Information Science.

Learn about the benefits and process of obtaining a graduate degree.

­Connect with peers and engage in a skill-building research project.

­Discover research-oriented career pathways in computing and information science.

Talk with current Ph.D. students about their graduate experience.

 

SONIC TESTIMONIALS

"The word has gotten out that Cornell is the place to be if you want to get a Ph.D. in computer science, and it’s friendly to underrepresented minorities — friendly meaning not only that people are nice, but there are other people here from underrepresented backgrounds."

Hakim Weatherspoon, SoNIC Founder and Cornell Bowers CIS CS Professor

"I feel empowered now – I’m feeling valued...Having the opportunity to be here with other students from underrepresented groups motivates me. It gives me the confidence that I can actually do it if I put my mind to it."

Jean Marie Uwimana, SoNIC Participant

"Coming here was really validating...It’s been nice to meet other people with similar backgrounds to me, because usually you don’t meet them otherwise. You feel like you’re a minority in your communities. But when you come here, you shift from feeling like a minority to being surrounded by people like you, which is incredible."

Alisha Ukani, SoNIC Participant