In addition to her engineering major, Amartya is pursuing a minor in Cognitive Science. She is applying both disciplines in her role as a technical contributor to the Electromyography Brain Controlled Wheelchair project (EMG/BCI) where, as the only team member with machine learning expertise, she builds and tests the systems that “translate EMG signals into mobility commands.” This work “directly aims to increase accessibility and independence of individuals with severe motor impairments.”

Amartya is a self starter in many ways. While at UC Merced she established its first swim club. Here at UC San Diego she co-founded the Data Consulting Club, where she is vice-president of project operations, and has learned to “bridge the gap between technical execution and the logistics and communication skills required to keep a team functioning.”

During the pandemic, her family had to suddenly return to India just before her senior year of high school. She had little choice but to study independently for her AP exams. She believes that this challenging experience helped her realize that she is “the primary architect” of her education.

Not surprisingly, Amartya hopes to work in interdisciplinary research, “bridging neuroscience and engineering to develop accessible, life-changing technologies.” She believes that the opportunities she’s had would not have been possible without the support of friends and family. Amartya is enrolled in Earl Warren College.