Suggestions
Riya Karumanchi
CS & Computational Biology @Stanford
Riya Karumanchi is a notable figure currently serving as a Teaching Assistant at the Stanford University Graduate School of Business. She is pursuing her Master's degree in Computer Science, having been admitted in Autumn 2022, and is actively involved in research and teaching within the university's academic framework. In addition to her role at Stanford, she works as a Student Employee at the Hoover Institution, contributing to various projects and initiatives related to her field of study.1
Background and Achievements
Riya is recognized for her entrepreneurial spirit and innovative contributions, particularly in health technology. She founded SmartCane, a high-tech device designed to assist visually impaired individuals by using haptic feedback and GPS navigation to enhance their mobility and independence. This initiative has garnered significant attention and funding, including over $85,000 from major companies like Microsoft.2
Her entrepreneurial journey includes launching two med tech companies focused on improving the quality of life for marginalized communities. Notably, she has worked with Deloitte on developing wearable technology aimed at predicting falls among elderly patients, demonstrating her commitment to social impact through technology.23
Education and Professional Experience
Riya is pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Computer Science with a concentration in Computational Biology at Stanford University, expected to graduate in 2025. Her academic pursuits are complemented by various internships and leadership roles, including:
- Course Development Assistant for an introductory seminar on strategic decision-making.
- Director of the Business Association of Stanford Entrepreneurial Students (BASES), overseeing a substantial operating budget for entrepreneurial events.
- Healthcare Investment Intern at Exor Ventures, focusing on early-stage digital health startups.34
Advocacy and Community Engagement
Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Riya is an advocate for women in STEM. She actively mentors young entrepreneurs and participates in initiatives aimed at increasing female representation in technology fields. Her efforts have been recognized in various media outlets, highlighting her as one of the top young innovators globally.25
In summary, Riya Karumanchi is not only a dedicated Teaching Assistant at Stanford but also a dynamic entrepreneur and advocate for social change through technology. Her work exemplifies how young leaders can leverage their skills to create meaningful impacts in their communities.


