South Middlesex Times

Alex Geppert is set to make history at Rutgers University as he graduates at the age of 18 with a double major in computer science and data science. While peers his age are preparing for college, Geppert is gearing up to start a doctoral program this fall at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, focusing on multi-agent systems and generative AI.

Geppert's journey began at Watchung Hills Regional High School, where he simultaneously pursued two associate degrees in mathematics and computer science at Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC). "I was taking classes at Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) during afternoons and weekends," he shared, explaining how he advanced to Rutgers with enough credits to start as a junior.

His early immersion in computer science was sparked by reading "Deep Learning" by Ian Goodfellow during the COVID-19 lockdown. This exposure propelled him to teach himself calculus and linear algebra before enrolling in more advanced courses like multivariable calculus at RVCC.

Commuting from Warren Township, Geppert chose to live at home to save money and maintain his close relationship with his parents. He also joined Rutgers' crew team after an invitation at the student involvement fair. "They spotted me, asked if I’d try out," said Geppert, who previously engaged in swimming and lifeguarding. Despite early morning practices, he values the camaraderie and support system among his teammates.

Academically, Geppert has been actively involved in research within Rutgers' Computational Brain Lab, led by Konstantinos Michmizos. There, he worked on an AI-based system that uses computer vision for real-time robotic hand control. Michmizos praised him: "His maturity and discipline in navigating the uncertainties of research are impressive."

This fall, Geppert will focus on building AI systems that help people reason through complex problems. He emphasized the importance of AI's role in supporting human learning rather than replacing it. "We talk a lot about what AI can do, but not enough about how we stay connected to it," Geppert remarked.

For him, AI is a tool to enhance human cognitive processes: "The goal isn't to make people more dependent on AI. It’s to strengthen human thinking, not replace it."