Rongyu Shen

Describe the work you do. What are some of your recent and current projects that excite you? What inspires you about the future of your chosen field?

I fuse AI, computer science, and analytical methodologies with a mindset towards urban innovation and craft AI-native civic tools for the underrepresented population with the empowerment of technology. I am currently working on creating a digital twins of NYC’s public transit like Mini Tokyo 3D, which is a personal project I am pretty excited about to practice my full-stack development skills. I work within the realm of Urban Technology, and I think the field is a vision of the future that tries to find solutions balancing human, nature, and technology.

Why did you choose Taubman College for your education?

I came here instead of UCL’s architecture program because Taubman College created the Urban Technology program. I am a person who seeks innovation and exploration, so this program is a perfect fit for me to keep exploring what I want to do, which I did in the past 4 years.

How did Taubman College prepare you for your career? What experiences beyond the classroom (internships, research assistantships, teaching opportunities, or other external experiences) provided additional value?

The career office helped me a lot in familiarizing the job market and human connection norms in the US, and my Taubman College connections gave me direct support and referrals in my internship and research hunt. I am grateful for the opportunity to teach in the UT 230 classroom provided by Prof. Matthew Wizinsky and Prof. Wonyoung So, which gave me new perspectives on teaching and how to make the students’ experience better.

How has being part of the alumni community impacted you, personally and professionally?

It enables me to stay connected with my Taubman Connections while keeping exploring the world outside.

What did you like best about attending Taubman College?

I love the sense of community in the urban tech program.

What advice or important lesson would you share with someone considering Taubman College and/or pursuing a career in your chosen field?

Be bold and aware of what you do when you choose urban tech.