She joined his lab and began working alongside a team that includes Ph.D. and master’s students, as well as three other undergraduates. The project is also advised by Zackory Erickson(opens in new window) and Pragathi Praveena(opens in new window), all from CMU’s Robotics Institute.
The research began in summer 2024 as a Summer Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship(opens in new window) (SURA) project and has evolved through multiple semesters. Tan contributed to building the tracking system and developing the app.
A broader mission
Originally from Singapore, Tan is acutely aware of the challenges posed by aging populations.
“There’s a large proportion of people over 65 in Singapore,” she said. “This project is very relevant to my home country and many others.”
She sees undergraduate research as a transformative experience.
“Through SURF, I learned how to build an AI system from end to end and communicate my findings. It’s been incredibly meaningful.”
Finding community at CMU
Beyond research, Tan has found a vibrant community at CMU. She co-founded the CMU Star Wars Club(opens in new window), where students gather for lightsaber training and robotics projects like building a BB-8 droid.
“CMU is a place where, if you’re passionate about something, you’ll find others who share that passion,” she said.
