Rutvikkumar Dave's Success Story
About Rutvikkumar Dave:
Dave is originally from India and first experienced life in the U.S. as a J-1 exchange student in 2018, which gave him early exposure to studying and living in a new country. He later returned to pursue his Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence at Florida Atlantic University in the College of Engineering and Computer Science.
Family plays a significant role in Dave’s life, encouraging him to take bold steps—such as moving abroad—and supporting him along the way. He is also deeply committed to giving back to the community through volunteering, which provides him with a strong sense of purpose and keeps him grounded.
Beyond academics and service, Dave is passionate about technology, leadership, and building meaningful connections. He enjoys traveling and learning from different people and cultures, seeing each journey as an opportunity to gain new perspectives and friendships. To date, he has visited 12 countries and looks forward to exploring many more in the future.
Questions about being an International Student:
Why did you choose FAU? What do you like about FAU the most?
I chose FAU because of its strong research culture, especially in AI and transportation, and the welcoming international community. What I like most is that FAU feels like a close-knit family - professors, staff, and students are approachable, and there are always opportunities to get involved.
What is the most exciting part about being an international student?
The most exciting part is being able to live between cultures. Learning something new every day while also sharing my own background. Every interaction feels meaningful because it connects two worlds together.
What has been your biggest challenge as an international student? How did you respond to overcome that challenge?
The biggest challenge was balancing everything - adjusting to a new education system, managing work, studies, and personal life all at once. I overcame it by building a support system at FAU professors, friends, and mentors who guided me. I also learned to organize my time better and give myself grace when things get overwhelming.
What is your advice for international students who are starting at FAU?
Don’t be shy to reach out and connect. FAU has so many resources from International Student Services to student clubs but you have to take the first step. Ask questions, get involved, and remember that you’re not alone on this journey.
Questions about your Research:
What is your research focus?
My research focuses on applying Artificial Intelligence in transportation, especially enhancing road lane detection in autonomous vehicles and predicting dynamic toll pricing with the broader goal of making roads safer and reducing traffic fatalities.
How did you get involved in research?
I got involved by working with professors at FAU who encouraged me to apply my technical skills to real-world challenges. Through those collaborations, I found research topics I was passionate about and began building on them.
What does research mean to you? How has research benefited you or others?
For me, research is about solving meaningful problems and creating real-world impact. Publishing my work on road safety with AI has been especially rewarding, because it shows how academic research can contribute to safer and smarter transportation systems and in broader terms, it means helping save lives on the road. I have presented and published two papers in this area. On a personal level, research has also taught me patience, persistence, and teamwork.
Fun Questions:
What is your favorite spot at FAU campus?
The Student Union area - it’s always lively and feels like the heart of campus.
Where do you want to travel in the U.S./ Where have you already travelled to?
I’d love to travel to California for its mix of tech hubs and scenic views. I’ve already traveled to places like New York and Amsterdam for conferences, which were amazing experiences.
Recommend a favorite book/movie/local restaurant?
My favorite book is The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho - it’s all about following your dreams. For movies, I enjoy Interstellar. And for local food, I’d recommend any good Indian spot in Boca or Miami.
Quote that motivates you the most?
“The best way to predict your future is to create it.” - Peter Drucker. This quote motivates me the most because it reminds me that my actions, persistence, and choices shape the path ahead, and that I have the power to build the future I imagine.