New USM Clubs: Google Developer, Robotics and Intelligent Machines

The University of Southern Mississippi’s (USM) School of Computing Sciences and Computer Engineering (CSCE) is fostering the next generation of innovators and preparing students for today’s dynamic tech industry landscape. This effort is significantly bolstered by the introduction of two new student organizations: the Google Developer Student Club and the Robotics And Intelligent Machines club. Understanding the implications of these fields, particularly the general ai meaning in modern technology, is crucial for students’ future success.

USM students and faculty gather for the launch of new tech clubs, including Google Developer and Robotics

Google Developer Student Club

As the first university chapter of its kind in Mississippi, USM’s Google Developer Student Club (GDSC) was established to provide students with a dedicated platform to learn, grow, and innovate collaboratively. Whether students are coding maestros, design enthusiasts, or simply curious about the latest technological advancements, the club’s activities are designed to bridge the gap between diverse academic backgrounds and tech-driven career aspirations. Exploring fields such as learning in artificial intelligence is made accessible through the club’s resources and community.

Students at a Google Developer Student Club meeting at USM, discussing tech topics

Yaju Shrestha, a student double-majoring in computer science and applied economics, serves as the GDSC club lead. He shared that the idea for starting the club originated from a casual conversation among friends who shared a common goal: pursuing careers in either software development or machine learning.

“My introduction to GDSC came through LinkedIn, where I learned about another university chapter working on projects to bridge the gap between academia and industry,” Shrestha said. “Intrigued, my friends and I decided to establish a club with a dedicated focus on these emerging fields. Our vision was to create a space where students could explore and learn beyond the classroom. We understood that a club simulating the real-world coding environment would empower students to broaden their horizons.” This aligns with the broader expansion of technology into areas like artificial intelligence in biology and many other disciplines.

Shrestha subsequently applied to lead a GDSC chapter at USM, with Dr. Nick Rahimi, Assistant Professor in CSCE, serving as the club’s faculty advisor. “After navigating through various application processes and interview rounds, we finally received the green light to officially launch our chapter,” Shrestha added.

In the upcoming academic year, the club plans to offer a myriad of activities and events, including regular tech talks and workshops on a variety of Google technologies, hackathons and hackathon preparation workshops, industry speaker events with Google engineers and other tech professionals, mentorship programs to connect students with experienced developers, and social events to build community and network with other students.

“Students will have the opportunity to collaborate with industry professionals, attend conferences, and engage in real-world applications of Google technologies,” said Dr. Rahimi. “For example, students can apply to attend Google-sponsored conferences, such as I/O and DevFest. They can also participate in USM hackathons and other events, where they will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects using Google technologies.”

Shrestha highlights that the club’s activities will heavily focus on skill development to ensure students can excel in the fast-paced tech industry. “By creating an ecosystem where members acquire versatile skills, club members will be able to excel in the dynamic technological landscape. Ultimately, our vision is to inspire a new generation of fearless thinkers and creators who will shape the technological future, benefiting both students and the broader USM community,” he concluded.

How to Join Google Developer Student Club

Students interested in joining the GDSC can initiate the process by contacting the club lead, Yaju Shrestha, via email. The Google Developer Club welcomes all students, regardless of their academic background or prior experience level. It functions as a student-led organization, encouraging members to take ownership of the club and its activities. The club is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community where every member feels welcome and supported.

Robotics and Intelligent Machines Club

USM’s Robotics And Intelligent Machines Student Club aims to broaden participation in technology applications centered around robotics and intelligent machines among the campus community. This focus area is increasingly vital as fields like robotics and ai continue to evolve and impact various industries.

USM students working with robots and electronics components in the Robotics and Intelligent Machines Club

Muhammad Sabih Ul Hussnain, a computer science major, serves as the president of the Robotics and Intelligent Machines Club. He shared that his inspiration for starting the club stemmed from a deep-seated desire to be part of a community focused on programming and electronics.

“I’ve always been interested in robotics. My interest stems back to 8th grade, when I started making small projects like a quadruped robot and other stuff. When I got to USM, I realized there wasn’t a robotics club and there were a lot of students interested in joining a STEM club with a focus on programming and electronics,” he explained.

Hussnain attended the club’s inaugural meeting for this semester, where it officially formed, and he was selected as president, with Dr. Jose Martinez Cruz, Assistant Teaching Professor in CSCE, serving as the club’s faculty advisor.

“When students join the club, they have access to several robots for learning experiences,” said Dr. Martinez Cruz. “Most of the robots that the club has are small factor forms of industrial applications, so it will be easy for students to later engage in work environments where robotics and intelligent machines applications are part of the routine.” This provides practical exposure to areas like artificial intelligence and automation.

In the upcoming academic year, the club will offer diverse activities and events, including testing of different robotic assemblies for ground and underwater applications, participating in robotic competitions as volunteers, judges, or participants, and attending lectures with experts in the robotics field to learn about its applications in the industry.

Hussnain highlights that he is looking forward to facilitating future partnerships with other groups on campus, further expanding the club’s reach and impact.

How to Join Robotics and Intelligent Machines Club

Students interested in joining the club can initiate the process by emailing the USM Robotics Team. Students from all backgrounds and any major are welcome to join; the only requirement is an interest in contributing to the development of technology. The current president is Muhammad Sabih Ul Hussnain, and the vice president is Nathan Anderson.

Conclusion

The establishment of the Google Developer Student Club and the Robotics and Intelligent Machines Club marks a significant step for The University of Southern Mississippi in empowering its students. By providing hands-on learning, expert guidance, and a collaborative environment, these clubs offer invaluable opportunities for students to develop critical skills and gain practical experience in high-demand tech fields. They serve as vital platforms for innovation, preparing students not just for careers, but to become future leaders shaping the technological landscape.