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This interview is part of a series of brief discussions from the MIT Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, known as Student Spotlights. Each spotlight highlights a student responding to their selection of inquiries about themselves and their experiences at MIT. Today’s participant, Aria Eppinger ’24, earned her undergraduate degree in Course 6-7 (Computer Science and Molecular Biology) last spring. This upcoming spring, she will finalize her MEng in 6-7. Her thesis, overseen by Ford Professor of Engineering Doug Lauffenburger from the Department of Biological Engineering, explores the biological foundations of negative pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and preeclampsia, using polytope-fitting algorithms.
Q: Tell us about a teacher from your past who significantly impacted who you are today.
A: Numerous educators have profoundly influenced my journey. I would like to first express my gratitude to my elementary and middle school instructors for instilling a passion for learning within me. I also extend thanks to my high school educators for not only providing me with the fundamentals of constructing compelling arguments, coding, and experimental design, but also for emphasizing the value of leading a well-rounded life. It’s easy to let studies or work consume you, particularly when both can be so enjoyable. My high school teachers motivated me to engage in hobbies, create memories with friends, and cherish time with family. As life continues to be busy, I deeply appreciate this lesson (even if I’m still striving to perfect it).
Q: Share a conversation that altered the path of your life.
A: A few years ago, I had the chance to converse with Warren Buffett. I felt anxious at first, but was soon reassured by his tales of favorite foods — hamburgers, French fries, and ice cream — along with his hitchhiking anecdotes. His warmth left a lasting impression on me, which continues to inspire me even today.
Q: Do you own any pets?
A: I have one dog residing at home with my parents. Dodger, named after the “Artful Dodger” from Oliver Twist, is as playful as beagles are known to be. We rescued him from a shelter when I was in elementary school.
Q: Are you a fan of re-reading or re-watching — if yes, what are your go-to books, shows, or films?
A: I don’t frequently revisit many books or films, but I never grow weary of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.” I treated myself to a beautifully bound edition when I was interning in New York City last summer. Other Austen novels, particularly “Sense and Sensibility,” “Persuasion,” and “Emma,” are also cherished, and I’ve watched various adaptations of them. My top pick is the 1995 BBC version of “Pride and Prejudice” due to its fidelity to the original text, the casting of the lead roles, and the creative additions made by the producer and director to modernize the narrative for contemporary audiences. Although the adaptation is quite extensive, I hold dear memories of re-watching it with fellow Austinites at MIT.
Q: If you were to teach a comprehensive class about a niche subject, what would you choose?
A: There exist two types of individuals: those who consume food to survive, and those who savor food as a way of living. Being part of the latter group, I would relish the chance to teach an intricate course on cuisine. Perhaps I would delve into the science of creating chocolate cake, or mastering the ideal ice cream. Or maybe I would explore the biochemistry of digestion. Regardless, there would be plenty of hands-on demonstrations, with lots saved for taste-testing!
Q: What was the most recent belief you revised?
A: Brisket! I was never particularly fond of brisket until I visited a Texas BBQ eatery near campus, The Smoke Shop BBQ. Having grown up without experiencing genuine BBQ, I was initially doubtful. However, I not only enjoyed the brisket but also the other menu items. The Brussels sprouts with caramelized onions has become my favorite dish, although it feels somewhat sinful to declare that about a BBQ restaurant!
Q: What are you excited about regarding life after graduation? What do you think you’ll miss about MIT?
A: I’m eagerly anticipating new adventures post-graduation, such as working in New York City and traveling to various destinations. I have enrolled in Intensive Italian at Harvard this semester and am organizing a trip to Italy to practice my Italian language skills, explore historic landmarks, visit the Vatican, and sample the cuisine. Non vedo l’ora di viaggiare all’Italia! [I can’t wait to travel to Italy!]
While I am thrilled for what is to come, I will genuinely miss MIT. What a delight it has been to spend most days acquiring knowledge from a torrential flow, enrolling in classes on unfamiliar topics due to captivating course descriptions, engaging with individuals whose perspectives are either very similar or starkly different from my own, and forging friendships that will endure a lifetime.
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