The Rocky Point School District welcomed Dr. Aruna Balasubramanian, an
Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Stony Brook University, to
the STEAM Lecture Series. Her talk Computer Science Research and
Opportunities in the 21st Century was geared toward middle and high
school students. Dr. Balasubramanian discussed her research related to
internet access in developing countries, privacy issues in data
collection, and development of novel applications for smartphone users
with visual impairments. She also shared information about Stony Brook’s
computer science programs, as well as computer science career placement
and salary data. After her talk, Dr. Balasubramanian spoke individually
to a number of students and encouraged their pursuit of computer
science interests. Of the approximately 20 attendees, inquiries
particularly related to data and privacy concerns were the topics
addressed. Coordinated by Director of Math, Science, and Technology Mr.
Aaron Factor, the lecture series is designed to provide students and the
community opportunities to interact with professionals in STEAM fields
and to generate enthusiasm for pursuing STEAM-related career paths. The
next STEAM lecture is slated for Tuesday, March 3.