Quantum technology is poised to transform industries worldwide, and Southern Connecticut State University students are leading the way, competing alongside top institutions in this exciting field.
In early November, teams from across the region gathered to showcase the transformative potential of quantum innovation during Quantum UP!, a unique “hackathon” designed for students from non-STEM fields.
Representing Team Quantum Ethics, SCSU students Crossby Dessallines and Jose Daniel Mandujano earned a $1,500 prize for their outstanding project.
Spanning several weeks, Quantum UP! takes students through a comprehensive journey, from foundational quantum education to team collaboration, real-world challenges, and final presentations.
Held at UConn’s Graduate Business Learning Center in Hartford, the event awarded $9,000 in prizes to teams that addressed challenges presented by leading companies. Southern students joined peers from UConn, Yale, and other universities in exploring the wide-ranging applications of quantum technology in fields like business, law, and healthcare.
“SCSU is proud of its prominent role in QuantumCT offering cutting use-inspired research through the CSCU Center for Nanotechnology and Werth Industry Academic Fellowship Program while also providing opportunities for engagement in important Quantum adjacent fields including business and quantum ethics,” said Dr. Christine Broadbridge, executive director for the Division of Research and Innovation and the Innovation Hub at Southern Connecticut State University.
Below is an interview with Dessallines and Mandujano.
Emerging technologies like quantum computing often feel abstract to those outside the field. How do you think quantum computing will tangibly impact industries like finance and insurance in the next two decades?
Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize industries like finance and insurance. Imagine being able to analyze massive datasets in seconds, rather than days or weeks. This could lead to more accurate risk assessments, improved fraud detection, and innovative financial products.
What challenges did you face during the project, particularly in making quantum concepts accessible and actionable for industry applications? How did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges we faced was understanding the complex concepts of quantum mechanics. To overcome this, we broke down the information into smaller, more manageable chunks and used analogies to explain complex ideas. We researched experts who helped us visualize these abstract concepts.
The competition brought together over 100 students from diverse institutions. What was it like working alongside such a wide array of talented peers, and did any ideas or collaborations particularly inspire you?
Working with other talented students from diverse backgrounds was incredibly inspiring. It was exciting to see how different perspectives could be combined to solve complex problems. While we focused on our own project, we were also amazed by the innovative ideas of our peers.
What role do you see students, and yourselves, playing in shaping the quantum technology landscape, both in Connecticut and beyond?
As students, we believe we have a unique opportunity to shape the future of quantum technology. By gaining practical experience, conducting research, and collaborating with others, we can contribute to the development of this groundbreaking field.
For students and young professionals interested in quantum computing, what advice would you give them for breaking into the field and contributing to its growth?
My advice for aspiring quantum professionals is to be curious, persistent, and collaborative. A strong foundation in quantum mechanics and computer science is crucial to understanding the intricacies of quantum computing. Seek out opportunities to gain practical experience through internships, research projects, or online research.
