Midwest Research Computing and Data Consortium
This is a series where we delve into the experiences of participants in the Student Experience Program (SEP). We gathered insights from several students about their motivations, key takeaways, and suggestions for the program. Edited excerpts from their responses are presented below.
Vinay: My motivation was driven by a desire to gain insights into HPC and advanced data resources, and to understand how these tools can push the boundaries of research. The program promised to broaden my knowledge and provide valuable networking opportunities.
Wenxuan: As a researcher in computational biology, I wanted to learn about distributed computing due to the complexity of models and data sizes. Many in my field are unfamiliar with HPC, and I saw this program as a chance to fill that gap.
Mehmed: I was motivated by my longstanding interest in high-performance computing (HPC) and data analysis. As a Computer Science and Robotics student at the University of Michigan, I wanted to deepen my understanding of high-performance systems and explore infrastructure at other institutions.
Omkar: This program was introduced to me by my Machine Learning professor. The opportunity to gain experience with high-performance computing, data analysis, and advanced cyberinfrastructure was incredibly appealing for my academic projects and future career.
Vinay: Jenn Taylor’s session on “Jetstream2: Cloud Computing for Everyone” highlighted the inclusivity in scientific discovery through user-friendly cloud computing. Jim Ferguson’s talk on the partnership between MSI and the Masonic Institute for the Developing Brain was also impactful.
Wenxuan: The retreat helped me understand the application of HPC in science and allowed me to meet knowledgeable and patient professionals in the field. The discussions provided a solid foundation for my future learning and professional connections.
Mehmed: The retreat provided valuable insights from faculty and supercomputing professionals. A standout experience was the mentorship component, especially my interaction with Scott Hampton from Notre Dame. The presentation on “Gen AI for Science” by Charles Catlett was particularly fascinating due to its relevance to my research.
Omkar: I found the interaction with my mentor, Brock Palen, from the University of Michigan, particularly insightful. The discussion on their personal ChatGPT version for the university was fascinating. Sessions on JetStream2 and the OH-SCIPE team’s approach to training CI professionals also stood out.
Vinay: SEP has significantly enriched my research by exposing me to advanced computational tools and projects like the Patra Model Cards for ICICLE, which emphasize best practices in AI model development.
Wenxuan: The program has encouraged me to start using HPC resources for my research. I now feel confident to contact our institution’s HPC facility to move my models there, which will enhance my computational capabilities.
Mehmed: Participation in SEP has enriched my research by providing fresh perspectives and valuable knowledge. The mentorship and networking opportunities are invaluable for my future academic and professional endeavors.
Omkar: The access to high-performance computing resources and training has been directly beneficial to my research projects, especially those requiring data-intensive analysis. The insights gained will help me train complex machine learning models for my final project.
Vinay: Exposure to advanced research in HPC, new project ideas, and networking opportunities are the most valuable aspects. Understanding emerging trends in HPC, like those highlighted in sessions on AI and accelerated computing, is also crucial.
Wenxuan: Gaining a primary understanding of HPC and knowing where to start were my main goals. The program provided great resources for beginning my learning journey and establishing long-term connections with field experts.
Mehmed: The most valuable skills include advanced techniques in HPC, enhanced data analysis methodologies, and a deeper understanding of AI applications. Knowledge in grant writing and the latest tools in the field will also be beneficial.
Omkar: I hope to develop proficiency with HPC systems, experience with scientific computing workflows, techniques for large-scale data management, and an understanding of AI/ML tools.
Vinay: Expanding mentorship opportunities to align with specific research interests and increasing hands-on workshops for HPC tools would enhance the program. More structured networking events could also help build connections.
Wenxuan: I believe the program is great, but I would suggest implementing a long-term mentoring program to provide ongoing support and guidance for participants.
Mehmed: I suggest initiating interactions between mentors and mentees before the consortium starts. A brief online meeting could help establish rapport and make the mentorship more effective and personalized.
Omkar: Increasing hands-on activities or coding sessions related to the tools covered in presentations would be beneficial. More discussions on challenges like sustainable AI and balancing cloud vs. on-premises solutions could also be valuable.
Vinay Chaudhari, Graduate student at Saint Louis University
Wenxuan Hong, Graduate student at University of Minnesota
Mehmed Uludag, Undergraduate student at University of Michigan
Omkar Vullaganti, Graduate student at Saint Louis University