2024-25 President's Scholars

Jai Sutaria

Oscar Perlaza President’s Scholar

Major: Mechanical Engineering (Computer Science minor)

College of Engineering

Activities: oSTEM Board Member; Social Justice Leader at the Asian and Pacific Islander Center; Achieve Scholars Program; Kellogg Honors College; Café Con Libros Press Volunteer

Jai’s interest in robotics derives from his belief that research in the field leads to tangible and positive change for others, including their use in natural disaster situations, at-home medical care/support and education. Inclusion is key for Jai: “Academic research has been a historically restrictive field for marginalized groups, so I want to make it more accessible for folks who do and don’t share my identities.”
An early introduction to robotics in middle school ignited his passion, and he sees giving back as a mentor to a First Robotics Competition team as most effective for encouraging a new generation of future engineers. Role models have guided his journey, including his mother who immigrated to the United States to follow her passions and open opportunities for her family. Jai finds value in volunteerism and advocacy for LGBTQ+ and disability rights and sees lifelong learning and giving back as a way to help others achieve their own successes. As an undergraduate, Jai sees “CPP as a diverse place where you will meet a variety of people with unique experiences that will help you grow as a person.”