Hello! I am Maria Julia Vidal. I am a Sophomore in Computer Engineering at the University of South Florida, and I am incredibly excited about the opportunity to contribute to the RARE Lab.
I’m passionate about human-robot interaction, especially the cognitive framework of robots—their mental models, memory systems, and how we draw from human cognition to build these systems. The idea of creating systems inspired by human cognition drives my curiosity, and I’m eager to explore and contribute to advancements in this field, where robotics, AI, and neuroscience come together.
— 9/5/2024
During my time at RARE Lab, I had the opportunity to work with Choreograph and Pepper, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the research process. I also had the opportunity to contribute to various stages of the project, from concept development to implementation, which helped me build valuable skills and techniques. This experience significantly enhanced my professional growth, and I am grateful for the chance to collaborate with this team. I truly appreciate the time, support, and mentorship they provided throughout the project.
— 4/20/2025
