Harsheeth Aggarwal

As a Grand Challenges Scholar, Harsheeth Aggarwal has spent his undergraduate years exploring how technology can make the world not only smarter, but safer. His chosen theme, “Security,” reflects his commitment to building resilient systems and ensuring the ethical use of technology in an increasingly digital society.

Aggarwal graduates this December with a bachelor’s degree in computer systems engineering from the School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence, part of the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University. He joined the Grand Challenges Scholars Program, or GCSP, to push beyond the classroom and learn how engineering connects to real global needs.

“I’ve always been fascinated by both hardware and software,” Aggarwal says. “Computer systems engineering gave me the perfect balance between the two, letting me solve complex problems through integrated system design.”

At ASU, Aggarwal embraced an interdisciplinary mindset. He completed multiple engineering projects, including work on Headcount, a system designed for ASU’s Downtown Phoenix campus community partners, such as the Residence Hall Association and event managers. The project, part of his engagement in Engineering Projects in Community Service, or EPICS, improved occupancy tracking and promoted campus safety. Through the experience, Aggarwal saw firsthand how engineering solutions can make tangible impacts.

As part of his Grand Challenges journey, Aggarwal also gained professional experience through two summer internships at Wells Fargo, where he worked as a software engineer and technology analyst intern. After graduation, he will return to Wells Fargo full time in Charlotte, North Carolina.

His Fulton Schools experience also included leading project teams, serving as a scrum master in his capstone course, and mentoring peers in collaborative development processes. 

“Engineering is fun because it’s like a constant puzzle,” he says. “You get to create, experiment and innovate every day while learning how your solutions can make a real difference in the world.”

Aggarwal says the Fulton Schools’ emphasis on innovation and sustainability helped shape his engineering perspective. He credits the GCSP with broadening his view of technology’s role in society — not just as a tool for efficiency, but as a force for global good.

Long term, Aggarwal hopes to work at the intersection of embedded systems, artificial intelligence and user-centered design, developing technologies that make everyday life smarter, safer and more connected.

“I’ll take with me the collaborative spirit and problem-solving mindset that define the Fulton Schools,” he says. “Here, innovation isn’t just encouraged. It’s expected.”

Favorites

Hobby: Working out/lifting weights
Performer: Bruno Mars
TV show: How I Met Your Mother
Sports team: Golden State Warriors
Game: NBA 2K

Read about other exceptional graduates of the Fulton Schools’ fall 2025 class.

Written by Kelly deVos