California Institute of Technology

Why I chose Caltech:
When I was thinking about what colleges to apply to, I was looking for a university that would provide me with the opportunity to study mechanical engineering and engage with meaningful research as an undergrad. I also was looking for a school with a competitive division III tennis program to allow me to continue to compete at a high level while still being able to focus on my academic work. Caltech fit the bill for all of these things, so that is why I chose Caltech!

Research and STEM Activities:
Metamaterials Research and SURF with the Daraio Lab... SURF with the Explosion Dynamics Lab... NASA Big Idea Challenge Grant Recipient... Talented Young Mathematicians Program Mentor...Aerodynamics Research at IIT.

Before Caltech:
Academics:  Doris S. Perpall Speaking Competition Semi-Finalist (2022)... Carol S. Casey Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Fellow (2022)... Best Product Development, Big Idea Forum (2021)... Toni and Bob Perpall SURF Fellow (2021)... COMPASS Outstanding Mentee Award (2021)... Graduation Commencement ’Scriptor’ Speaker (2020)... National Merit Finalist (2020)... Communication Arts Academic Excellence Award (2020)... National AP Scholar (2019).

Athletics: IHSA State Tournament State Fifth Place - Doubles (2019).. Big Gun (MVP) Award (2019)... Female Scholar Athlete (2019)...IHSA State Tournament Runner Up - Doubles (2018)... Four Year IHSA State Tournament Qualifier (2016-2019).

Personal:
Daughter of Zeni Thakkar and Jayanth Kolli...older sister to Alaina Kolli.