Mekides Belie

Penn World scholars
Class of 2027

Ethiopia

Academic areas of interest

I am currently undecided about my major as this is my first year of college. But I am interested in majoring in Computational Cognitive Science and Computer Science.

I enjoy learning about the brain and how to link that knowledge to AI. I want to explore how machines can think, learn, and understand language like people do. I am especially curious about how AI can work with different cultures and languages, including my own language, Amharic, to help people communicate better.

I also want to learn how to design technology in a way that is safe, fair, and helpful for everyone. My hope is to build skills that will let me combine my interest in the mind with my love for technology to create tools that make a real difference.

Activities & Hobbies

I love traveling, exercising, and visiting museums to explore new ideas and cultures. I enjoy art in many forms, drawing in my free time, photography, and design. Creating art helps me express my thoughts and see the world from different perspectives.

I also enjoy reading, especially books about the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and historical works about my country, Ethiopia. Learning about my heritage inspires me and deepens my connection to my culture. In addition, I like spending time outdoors, trying new foods, and meeting people from different backgrounds, as these experiences give me fresh ideas and help me grow as a person.

Future Plans

I see the future as full of opportunities to learn, create, and make a positive impact. I would like to become a software engineer or work in the AI and machine learning field. My goal is to build tools and systems that solve real problems, improve communication, and make technology more accessible to people around the world. I also want to keep growing my skills in programming, problem-solving, and design so I can contribute to projects that are both innovative and ethical. In the long term, I hope to lead or collaborate on technology initiatives that connect people, share knowledge, and inspire the next generation of creators.