George Zhang (Electrical and Electronic Engineering), Cornell University
My IROP took place at Cornell University and my specific task was to implement and test a simulation in MATLAB of a novel data compression scheme called ‘Adaptive Subband Compression.’ The motivation behind this research is to support the adoption of renewable resources, such as wind and solar, by allowing high resolution power data to be transmitted in real time for future Wide Area Monitoring Systems (WAMS).
Overall, the research experience provided me with an excellent opportunity to tackle a technical research problem, whilst developing my communication skills in a research lab environment. In addition, it has opened my eyes to the possibility of future graduate study in the US.
I was also able to attend several lunchtime talks by other undergraduate researchers in the engineering department. I found this to be a great opportunity to meet new people, hear about different research areas, and be inspired by students my own age.
Outside of the research, I really enjoyed exploring Cornell’s large and beautiful campus and the surrounding area. One of my favourite spots on campus was Libe Slope, where I spent countless hours watching the sunset over Cayuga Lake whilst talking to friends. Additionally, due to Cornell’s location, I was able to devote a lot of time to running and exploring stunning trails and never-ending green fields. Although, I was constantly ridiculed for my British accent, I was also able to make some amazing American friends, the majority of whom were on similar undergraduate research programmes.
One of the highlights of the trip was a weekend away in New York City. Here, I went to see the Phantom of the Opera on Broadway, visited the 9/11 museum and even enjoyed going to a basement jazz club.
To conclude, I cannot recommend this experience highly enough. It allowed me to conduct research according to my engineering interests at a world class university, experience and explore a different country, and make lasting international connections. Finally, having never been away from the UK for an extended period, it allowed me to develop both personally and professionally, while providing me with new directions for my future.