Student Spotlight: Learning Quantum with Nitya
Nitya Devaraj is an undergraduate student living in Bath, United Kingdom, and is currently enrolled in Qubit by Qubit’s Introduction to Quantum Computing course (2020–2021). In addition to excelling in her coursework, Nitya is also a student assistant. As a student with significant STEM training, she volunteers her time to assist other students through weekly office hours and homework assistance.
I wanted to learn quantum computing with the hope to understand quantum mechanics better. I was lucky enough to figure out my academic interests fairly early in high school. I discovered the fascinating world of quantum mechanics in a chemistry class and had my heart set on doing something quantum related ever since. I enjoyed high school very much and could not choose between my subjects at the time: math, physics, and computing. I was ecstatic when I discovered the field of quantum computing as it combines all my interests so beautifully. Since then, I’ve been inspired to be involved with its development.
My time at QxQ has been nothing short of a truly incredible experience. I was delighted to be able to apply to the course let alone being accepted! I’ve taken online courses in the past but this one was unique in so many ways, especially the strong sense of community among thousands of like-minded, helpful, and hardworking people from around the world.
I was thrilled to be selected as a student assistant on the course. Not only did this give me the opportunity to experience the diversity of the student body first-hand, but it was also an amazing experience to discuss exciting topics from the course content with others. It gave us a chance to speak with each other and consolidate important ideas from the homework. Being a student assistant has definitely enriched my time on the course as revisiting the material in order to teach it has benefitted my understanding of the content a lot. I quite enjoy teaching and it has been so rewarding to help where I can. It was also great to be able to interact with other students, especially during lockdown.
I have gained valuable experience in teaching quantum computing at the basic level and I’m sure it will be useful for me in the future. I have also grown tremendously as a person and in my skills, stepping outside my comfort zone a little bit more and stretching myself to improve.
Working on my passions and learning really energizes me, and I’m extremely grateful for this course as I am now in a much better position than when I started in terms of knowledge and quantum computing experience. There is plenty more to read and learn, with advancements happening every day, and I’m so excited to use everything I’ve learned so far to expand my knowledge, deepen my understanding, and share my knowledge with others in the future! I’m really pleased to say that being a QxQ student was definitely the highlight of my year!
Nitya Devaraj
Applications are open for Qubit by Qubit’s 2021 summer quantum camps. Programs include a first-of-its kind middle school camp, a 2-week introductory high school camp, and a 4-week summer intensive for high school and undergraduate student, sponsored by IBM Quantum. Learn more at https://www.qubitbyqubit.org/programs
