As an MSIM student at the iSchool, Zhanchen Kang is passionate about helping people make sense of the overwhelming amount of information in their daily lives. Kang earned an undergraduate degree in information systems in China before coming to the University of Illinois to further explore how technology, data, and people intersect.
"The world isn't facing a lack of information, but rather an overload," Kang said. "We need better ways to search, collect, clean, and manage data so that people can make informed decisions instead of relying on only one perspective."
Kang chose the MSIM program at Illinois because of its unique combination of data science, computer science, statistics, and librarianship. Since joining the program, he has appreciated the flexibility and variety of courses available to students.
"The best thing about the MSIM is the unlimited access to courses and resources," he shared. "You can explore your interests from data science to statistics and even learn how to make your own games. The program really encourages exploration and helps you find your own path."
The course that has had the greatest impact on Kang is Information Modeling (IS 515), which examines the relationship between society and technology. This course encouraged him to consider technology in a new way, apply the knowledge he learned from a user's view, and understand what users expect to acquire from a product.
That human focus extends into Kang's research with Director of Research and Technology Innovation and Research Scientist Anita Nikolich. Together, they are studying the patterns between local ATM and scam activities.
While Kang has been dedicating his time to research projects, he values the opportunities and supportive environment the iSchool provides, describing the atmosphere as inclusive, innovative, and friendly.
Looking ahead, Kang hopes to help people build their own AI or natural language processing (NLP) models so that everyone can have access to tools that can positively impact their daily lives in a low-cost and efficient way.
For prospective students considering the MSIM program, Kang offers reassurance: "Even if you are not familiar with computers and have no programming skills, the program will help you get started and learn more."