Computer Science Undergrads Present Research at Top-Tier International Conferences

Belmont’s undergraduate CSM students impress among master’s, Ph.D. students internationally 

For undergraduate computer science students, the path to becoming a successful researcher often starts with a professor who identifies and develops their potential. Dr. Esteban Parra Rodriguez, assistant professor of computer science, has made it his mission to connect students with opportunities to present their research at prestigious international conferences — experiences typically reserved for Ph.D. candidates and faculty at major research institutions. 

“These aren’t just local presentations,” said Rodriguez. “These are prestigious, highly- competitive, peer-reviewed international conferences where our undergraduate students are adding these experiences to their CVs. Its puts them above everyone else when it comes to applying for master’s or Ph.D. programs later.” 

Since joining Belmont’s faculty during the 2022-23 academic year, Rodriguez has led multiple students through the application process at top-tier industry conferences and traveled with them to support their presentations. 

“For the most part, students attending these conferences are already getting their Ph.Ds. or masters’ degrees,” said Rodriguez. “Undergrads tend to stand out, and while presenting their research, often impress those in attendance who may offer spots in their future graduate programs.”

Several of Rodriguez’s students have already been accepted to present research at prestigious computer science conferences in 2025.

Beyond presenting experience, benefits of students attending these conferences include exposure to additional research in their field, networking with leading academics and researchers and exposure to potential career paths. International travel also adds additional potential for professional and personal growth. 

“They get to travel and experience new places, but most importantly, they get to experience what others have researched,” said Rodriguez. “They can then compare it to their own research.” 

This level of undergraduate research mentorship and faculty mentorship sets Belmont’s College of Sciences & Mathematics apart. While students at other universities may wait four to six years for a similar opportunity, computer science students at Belmont are publishing peer-reviewed works and presenting them on international stages before earning their bachelor’s degrees.