Instructor Ethan Garza Discovered AI Through Serendipity but Since Then, He Has Designed AI Used for Security and Privacy

Ethan Garza is an undergraduate at MIT studying Computer Science and Electrical Engineering with a minor in Data Science. Ethan is particularly interested in applications of AI for automation purposes. He has experience in using Machine Learning for privacy purposes, and is excited to see the applications of AI that will help to improve the quality of life for people across the world!

How did you choose what you studied in college? How did you end up studying AI?

“I started with breadth: which is why I'm on track to graduate with an EECS degree. Then I took a couple of specialized classes, including the AI class practically by accident. After taking the AI class with friends, I realized how much I enjoyed it, which lead me to take more classes and become much more involved (including research and work experience). Although unplanned, the very first class I took on AI was the stepping stone into my current career.”

What research/industry work within AI have you been focused on? What excites you about the future of AI?

“Real-time detection for an embedded device (work experience that included efforts towards a space mission), and exploring Neural Net Splitting for model infringing, and manipulating models for feature determination and removal of hidden biases.”

What has been the highlight of your teaching experience with Inspirit AI?

“Having students follow lectures with more questions”

What advice would you give to young people who are interested in studying AI or pursuing a career in AI in the future?

“Try it out! Learn the key words and start googling if you can! Much of the world of computer science is open source with many free learning resources available! If anything catches your interests, just try it out!”