Transcript: Audio recording [16/11/2169]
Source: Surveillance location 02E97
[Observer note: Snakejaw SOG listening post. Office of Yuliya Chernikova, Prof. of Neurobiology, California Institute of Technology]
Transcript excerpt begins at 01:117:14:37:29
Unknown speaker: Professor Chernikova? Um, sorry I'm a bit late. I had a set due five minutes ago...
Chernikova: It's no problem, Connie. Go and take a seat - I'll be right with you in a moment.
[Background noises: A door closing, soft tapping, some metallic squeaking]
Chernikova: So... you said in your email you wanted to discuss a change in major, is that right?
Connie: Yes, Professor. I'd like to switch options from biology to computer science. I've got the required forms for you to sign somewhere in here... [Some rustling and clacking sounds]
Chernikova: Yes, the forms...
Connie: Oh, and here's a list of all the classes I'll be taking each term until graduation. [More clacking] I've talked to the CS faculty option rep about what'll units I've already got that'll count towards fulfillment -
Chernikova: Yes, I received the email from Professor Chandy. Let me see... It seems that you have everything planned out carefully... All requirements met, good, good... And you have a list of alternatives in case a class isn't offered, good... Fifty-four units a term until graduation? You understand what your last term will be like?
Connie: I think I can handle it, Professor. It's... going to be hard around Ditch Day, but I'll figure it out.
Chernikova: Mmm. I trust you - I just hope whoever will be your new advisor can help you next year with this planned course load. You will talk to one of the Deans soon?
Connie: Yes, I'll be meeting with Dean Minnich next Monday.
Chernikova: Mmm... So you've thought this through. There's no need for me to remind you to make sure you can graduate on time. But - a few questions, before I approve this. What made you decide to switch to computer science? Earlier this term you seemed to be satisfied with your classes and research. Do you intend to continue with the Medical Scholars program?
Connie: Ah, yeah, about that... I've... decided I'm not going to stay pre-med.
Chernikova: ...As your advisor, I should have been informed of this earlier. You are aware how this will affect your financial aid? And you have told the faculty in charge of the program?
Connie: ...I'm aware. I've talked to the Financial Aid Office. And no, I haven't told Professor Huang yet. That's next on the to-do list.
Chernikova: Be sure you take care of it soon. But back to my other question - Why a switch?
Connie: I - Well, last term I took CNS 182, Theories of Cognitive Processes, mostly because it just sounded interesting and I was told the prof was really good. And it was a really good class. Professor Anker used a lot of examples from his own research, one of them a collaborative project between his group and a CS one working on improving VIs, and it was really fascinating. I ended up doing a SURF with them this past summer, and - well, honestly, it was the most exciting research I've done so far - though that's not saying much, as I'm just a junior. Working in the biotics lab was nice last year, but I just can't get as excited about eezo nodules. Also, I took a cross-listed CNS/CS class this term, and I admit, it was more fun and interesting than my bio and chem electives.
Chernikova: I see. It's good you've found something that excites you. But are two classes and a SURF enough for you to be confident of a change in major? I'm not saying you're doing this too soon -
Connie: I understand. I was asking that myself. I mean, I didn't really care much for CS outside of some basic programming for Matlab scripts. But I think this is something I can really get into. I feel... like I've stepped into something so much greater, with VI and AI design. The challenges involved, they're... almost mythic. Creating consciousness out of subatomic dust. It's an old dream, one we can finally make a reality with current technology. I just - I really want to be there when it happens. It'd be like watching a star being born.
Chernikova: [Two second pause] It sounds like you've found a real passion, then. That's good - not many students find one so soon. I remember it took me half of grad school before I realized what I wanted to study. [Soft laughter] Very well then. I'll have your forms ready before next week. Send me a reminder if you don't get anything by Friday noon.
Connie: I will, Professor. Thank you very much for your time.
Chernikova: My pleasure, Connie. You're a good student. If you need anything else, let me know.
Excerpt ends 01:117:15:02:12
Comments: VI analysis flagged recording excerpt as relevant to obs. target D0328 (Chen, Connie). Chen's statements agree with current profile assessment - target has a strong interest in AI development despite Citadel sanctions. Recommend target for further observation and eventual project recruitment. Deploy assets as needed to encourage target compliance.