Khushi Khurana

Athlete, Educator/Teacher, Scientist, Student, Technologist

Khushi Khurana is a rising high school junior and founder of For Kids, By Kids (forkidsbykids.org), a peer-led initiative that empowers students to learn, teach, and lead through computer science. Inspired by a STEM conference that introduced her to the creative and collaborative nature of coding, she has since taught more than 150 students through peer-driven programming programs designed to make computing accessible and engaging for learners of all backgrounds. Her work focuses on broadening participation in computing and developing scalable models for peer-led CS education. She has presented her research at SIGCSE, published a full paper at the ACM Interaction Design and Children (IDC) conference in collaboration with Penn State faculty, and is currently conducting research on developing effective STEM educators. Her research has also been recognized by IEEE ISEC, ISEF-affiliated science competitions, and the Broadcom Coding with Commitment Award. Khushi has shared her journey through her TEDx Talk, From Learner to Leader, where she discusses how teaching others transformed her own path in computer science. Outside of research, she volunteers with HindiUSA, is an accomplished pianist, and serves as a varsity coxswain for her rowing team. She plans to study computer science and engineering while continuing to explore AI for social good and expanding opportunities for young people, especially girls, to build confidence through computing.