Snowbird Rubio, an undergraduate student majoring in Computer Science at Barry University, recently completed an international collaborative research internship at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras in Chennai, India. During her internship, she worked on innovative projects for Eplane, a startup company aspiring to create India’s first flying transportation system for intercity, commune, and cargo transportation, aimed at addressing the severe traffic congestion in major cities.

Her primary task involved proposing recommendations for the locations of potential air taxis, rudder ports, rudder stops, and charging stations in Bangalore. This required extensive research, data analysis, and mapping to identify the most strategic and efficient locations for these infrastructures. Snowbird collaborated closely with local experts, urban planners, and technology developers to ensure her proposals were feasible and could effectively alleviate traffic issues.

While in India, Snowbird explored the city of Chennai, immersing herself in its local culture and cuisine. She visited historical landmarks and savored traditional South Indian dishes, gaining a deep appreciation for the city’s rich heritage. Her travels also took her to Bangalore, where she experienced the vibrant tech industry and bustling urban life, as well as firsthand the traffic congestion issues that Eplane aims to solve.

These experiences have significantly contributed to her professional and personal growth. The internship provided her with valuable technical skills and industry knowledge, broadened her perspectives, and enhanced her adaptability in new and challenging environments. Snowbird looks forward to applying what she has learned to her future endeavors and is grateful for the unforgettable memories and connections she has made.