Introduction

Shaurya Attal, a senior at a high school in Georgia, has combined his passion for data science with a drive to mentor others. His journey through the Seth Bonder Camps has taken him from eager student to lead teaching assistant, shaping both his own path and that of the students who have followed.

Shaurya’s Perspective: Discovering Seth Bonder Camp

I discovered Seth Bonder Camp (SBC) as a rising Sophomore. I was looking for something challenging, fun, and innovative to do. I did some research on the SBC Level 2 and discovered that students worked on projects like breast cancer detection using decision trees. That immediately caught my attention because it aligned perfectly with my growing interest in the real-world applications of AI.

Toward the end of my first SBC, I was absolutely fascinated by the type of learning, the peer group, and the interactions I had throughout the week. I also received a lot of help and encouragement from mentors and tas, and I was grateful for the way they made the difficult concepts accessible and fun. I knew I wanted to stay connected with the organization and give back to the next group of students.

That following summer, I returned to participate in Level 3 while also being a TA for Level 2. We made some small adjustments that year to improve the camp experience, and I loved being on the other side of the table, helping students through the same challenges I had once faced. Over time, this role grew into becoming the Lead TA and Beta Tester for all the camps, a chance to learn, give back, and collaborate with some of the smartest peers and mentors I’ve ever met. I’ve mentored over 100 students directly, reviewing countless lines of code, and providing feedback to shape thinking and presentations.

Rewards of Mentorship

The most rewarding part of mentoring other students is helping them ignite the same passion I had for data science after I went to SBC. While mentoring the Level 1 and 2 camps this year, I encountered a student who had a lot of enthusiasm and curiosity to learn the concepts but initially struggled with learning the syntax. I spent some time with that student and helped them through their challenges. I used a variety of analogies and explanations for difficult topics to ensure they understood the material. After that initial conversation, it was amazing watching the student fly through the labs and help others around them.

Academic Goals and Aspirations

I am most interested in pursuing Computer Science, Data Science, and AI applied to public policy domains. I want to work at the intersection of technology and governance, designing and deploying AI systems that are both technically useful and socially responsible. My long-term goal is to bridge the gap between cutting-edge innovation and policymaking, ensuring that advancements in AI are aligned with ethical standards and equitable access. This could involve roles in AI safety research, technology policy advising, or developing large-scale AI solutions for societal challenges such as criminal justice reform, education accessibility, and sustainable infrastructure.

Preparing for the Future

I have developed AI models that predict recidivism rates using the COMPAS dataset with a hypertuned Histogram Gradient Boosted Classifier and an AI-powered stock education app called StockRiskEd for the HackSphere Finance Hackathon. Beyond competition settings, I have interned on projects related to AGI safety and its application in medicine and education, and I founded OmniTech Careers, a platform connecting students to professionals in technology and providing practical insight about tech in different fields.

I want to deepen my expertise in advanced algorithms and optimization. I also aim to strengthen my background in optimization, and simulation techniques. In addition to technical skills, I want to gain more policy experience through research fellowships or government internships to better understand how laws and regulations are crafted in technology domains. Finally, I am looking to expand my professional network with mentors and collaborators who can help me navigate the intersection of computer science, data science, and public policy at a global scale.

Inspiration & Advice

I’m inspired by the students and professionals around me who are constantly creating new things with technology. Their work reminds me that this is a field where innovation never slows down, and that pushes me to keep learning. What drives me most is curiosity, something my parents have consciously worked on nurturing in me. The sense that there’s always another problem to solve, another question to ask, and another breakthrough waiting if you’re willing to pursue it is also integral to my thinking.

Students who are pursuing an interest in AI and computational thinking should start by building something that excites you, even if it feels simple. Follow your curiosity into new topics, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Each bug or failed experiment is just a step toward understanding. Seek out and associate yourself with institutes that are pushing the boundaries in your field of interest. Like for me, it was AI4OPT.  Deliberately and constantly seek out communities, competitions, and mentors who challenge you, because collaboration will teach you more than working alone. Most importantly, remember that AI is as much about people as it is about algorithms, so always consider who your work is helping and how.

Outside the Classroom

I’ve been an Indian classical and Bollywood singer since I was four years old, performing at cultural events and school programs. I recently learned how to play the harmonium as an accompaniment to my singing. I also swim competitively on my school’s varsity team and enjoy cooking dishes from different cultures.

I can speak 5 different languages, understand 7, and sing in 8!