Hi! I’m Ashia Agarwal, a sophomore double majoring in Computer Science and Math, interested in going into the Quantitative Finance field and entrepreneurship. Outside of the classroom, I am involved with two research labs, one in the cybersecurity space and the other works with LLMs in the BME space. I’m also part of various tech clubs on campus, my favorite of which allows me to work on projects with startups. Outside of academics, I’m involved with Duke Ishq, Duke Climbing Club, as well as, a sorority and a selective living group called Roundtable.

Hometown

Dallas, Texas

Major(s)

Computer Science, Mathematics

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Duke Impact Investing Group, Duke Cyber Club, Duke Quantitative Finance, Duke CS+, Duke Ishq, Duke Climbing Club, Duke Badminton, Roundtable, IM Futsol

Describe your college experience

My transition was pretty smooth, definitely an adjustment to move states and be a flight away from home, but I think Duke did a great job acclimating us through our first week orientation program that I felt very comfortable pretty quickly. My experience has been great so far, aside from the autonomy on my schedule, I have been able to explore so many interests and expand my skills throughout my time here.

Tip for future students

Aim to become a whole person, not just an academically capable individual. You meet and connect with people through so many different ways in college, try out your hobbies and interests.

Favorite class

I love Mathematical Logic because it stretched my brain to consider the core principles of how we look at mathematical equations and also the conditions and theories under which we process the world.

Career goals

I want to work in Quantitative Finance Research, and then transition to the tech startup industry later.

Ideal way to spend a free night

I love going to Durham Bulls games with friends!

High school or secondary school

Coppell High School

Favorite spot on campus

My favorite spot on campus is the second floor of our main dining hall Wu. There are a lot of study spaces on that floor, and my favorite place to go and work is this one room called the Family Room. Working in WU, one gets to see a lot of people pass by but also theres always a general background buzz thats very comforting. This room particularly holds a lot of memories of various events and hangouts that makes it my favorite.