Bonjour (Hello)! My name is Maria Beatriz, but feel free to call me Bia. I’m 22 years old and grew up in New York City, but my family is from Brazil and we visit every year. I love learning about how people in different places live, think, and see the world!
In school, I study computer science. To me, this means I learn how to use computers to help people. Technology can do a lot of good if we have the right people to build it! That’s what I want to do: work with people in all kinds of fields, like art or biology, to find out where they need help, and figure out what I can do about it.
Right now, I’m living in Paris, France to study at École Polytechnique with the help of a U.S. Fulbright Research Grant. I’m focusing on 3D data and visual computing, which means teaching computers how to understand pictures, recognize shapes, and build 3D digital models. For example, think about turning a photo of a statue into a full 3D model you can play with on a screen.
When I have free time, you can find me playing volleyball or exploring Paris. Paris has amazing art museums, food from around the world, and a great movie scene. Movie tickets for students here are €6, which is cheaper than popcorn at home! I can't wait to share my life here with you guys and hear what you're curious about!
Want to learn how you could be a Fulbright Scholar like me? The Fulbright Program is the United States government's flagship international exchange program. Fulbrighters foster mutual understanding between the United States and partner nations, share knowledge across communities, and improve lives around the world. Learn more by clicking here!
