A leap into the future
A robotic dog soared across the lab floor under the guidance of Hamza Mustafa ’27, a computer science major at Skidmore College.
Over the summer, Hamza worked with Assistant Professor of Computer Science Wenlu Du to develop an artificial intelligence model designed to teach the robot bipedal locomotion. “This project felt like the perfect opportunity to combine my interest in robotics with my passion for AI,” he explains.
Hamza was among a record 122 students and 66 faculty members to participate this year in Skidmore’s Faculty-Student Summer Research Program — part of the Zankel Experience Network (ZEN), established by Jimmy Zankel ’92 and Pia Scala-Zankel ’92. Associate Professor of Political Science Bob Turner, who coordinates the program, calls it “the proverbial crown jewel of close faculty-student relations and academic excellence at Skidmore.”
“Many students report being amazed at how hard research is: Hypotheses aren’t born out, fruit flies die, and machines don’t work as expected,” Turner says. “Figuring out how to overcome those challenges is what it is all about.”
He notes the research experience offers students a competitive advantage when applying to graduate schools and jobs after graduation.
Hamza Mustafa ’27 and Assistant Professor of Computer Science Wenlu Du with the robotic dog they trained to walk over the summer.
“Academically, I gained a much clearer picture of what AI looks like in practice. I also realized that it’s much harder than I expected, which has been humbling but motivating,” adds Hamza.
Besides, “I really enjoyed working with Professor Du: She is hardworking, smart, and supportive, but also fun and down-to-earth. Plus, she always brings the best snacks!”
A version of this article first appeared in the fall 2025 issue of Skidmore College’s Scope magazine.