AI-detection software launches Scholar's entrepreneurship journey

Second-year Schreyer Scholar Aryan Sabnekar discovered his passion for computer science after taking an online coding course and learning to create apps and webpages. At Penn State, he is combining that interest with an entrepreneurship minor.

“One of my long-term goals is to build a business that solves meaningful problems,” Sabnekar said. “My computer science major allows me to develop strong technical skills, while the minor helps me understand how to turn ideas into products.”

Eager to apply his skills outside the classroom, Sabnekar began competing in HackPSU, a semesterly hackathon where students build software from scratch in under 24 hours. He has participated both with a team and as a solo competitor.

For his most recent competition, Sabnekar created an AIdetection tool inspired by his mother’s difficulty identifying AI-generated videos. He quickly researched AI media and applied what he learned to build the software in real time. His work earned the award for best overall project.

Sabnekar also develops his problem-solving and consulting skills through Penn State Global Business Brigades. During a Schreyer-supported trip to Panama, he applied lessons learned through HackPSU while working toward ambitious goals on a limited timeline.

“I applied the teamwork skills from HackPSU,” Sabnekar said. “Staying focused was important, and I am grateful for the opportunity to apply these skills in a totally different situation.”

Looking ahead, Sabnekar plans to continue improving his award-winning AI-detection software. He recently presented the project at the Penn State Engineering Design Showcase, where he earned a monetary prize to support its future development.