San Ramon Student Creates AI College Counseling Tool

SAN RAMON, CA — As many families know, college applications can be a stressful minefield. Sayam De, a Purdue University freshman and California High School graduate who went through the process himself last year, has created a free, AI-powered tool to help underserved students who lack access to the consultants that help wealthier students navigate the process.

De, the founder of Pi Kids Inc., which aims to reduce educational inequities, used ChatGPT technology to build a tool to help underserved students. The tool includes:

• A resource document explaining how to ask the right questions about topics like financial aid, scholarships, and how to choose the right college and program.
• Sample prompts and recommendations for how to get the best information.
• Resources on the potential limitations of AI tools, including fact-checking and responsible usage.
• A college fit assessment that helps identify the right fit based on academic profiles, interests, and financial abilities.
• A scholarship finding tool
• An application checklist generator
• Info sessions and coaching workshops on how to use the tool effectively.
• Opportunities to connect students with free or low-cost mentors who can provide additional guidance.

"Our goal is to level the playing field for students in underdeveloped communities," De told Patch in a statement. "We believe that every student deserves the chance to pursue their dreams without barriers, and our AI-based counseling tool is a big step towards that vision."

De founded Pi Kids Inc. at Cal High along with 18 other high school volunteers in 2022 with the aim of improving educational opportunities for all. The group led numerous free coding workshops for underserved students across the Bay Area, and taught English and STEM courses to underserved students in Brazil. For his efforts, De received a President’s Volunteer Service Award, and acknowledgement from San Ramon then-Vice Mayor Sridhar Verose. At 17, De was also the youngest person honored by SRVUSD’S ‘30 Under 30’ Alumni Program, which honors alumni who are following their dreams and making a positive difference in the world.

See here to try the tool yourself, and here to learn more about Pi Kids Inc.

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