Anqi Qu, a fourth-year student at the University of Chicago, has been awarded the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship. She intends to pursue a graduate degree in economics at the University of Oxford in the upcoming fall.
Originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, Qu becomes the 54th student from her university to receive this honor and is the first since 2018. She is among 11 Rhodes Scholars chosen this year for the Southern African constituency, which encompasses South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, and Eswatini.
“The Rhodes Scholarship is more than an achievement; it’s a responsibility and a commitment to contributing to a better world,” said Qu. She is currently majoring in economics with a focus on data science and statistics at UChicago. “I see it as both a privilege and a promise—a promise to use this opportunity to drive positive change and to work towards creating a future where opportunity and equality are within reach for everyone. This is a responsibility I accept wholeheartedly, and I am excited to put in the effort it deserves.”
At Oxford, she plans to explore innovative methods of applying artificial intelligence (AI) to economic research and policy while establishing standards to prevent misuse. Her vision includes creating opportunities for all individuals regardless of their circumstances at birth.
“We are at a pivotal point in history where AI can democratize knowledge and spur unprecedented progress, but it can also drive inequality and entrench disadvantages,” Qu wrote in her Rhodes application. “As we work on this frontier, it’s essential to consider critically the social structures we are establishing for future generations. I see the development of equitable AI as one of humanity’s most pressing challenges, and I’m committed to ensuring that the outcome is a more just society.”
"Anqi's commitment to harnessing the power of machine learning to advance solutions to some of the most intractable challenges of our modern world is inspiring," said Melina Hale, dean of the College. “We are so proud to have her recognized with this incredible honor.”
Qu describes her academic journey at UChicago as both "rigorous and enlightening," providing her with confidence for further studies.
“Anqi is an exceptionally driven and determined student with a strong intellectual foundation in economics, statistics and computer science,” said Kotaro Yoshida from UChicago's Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics. “Her academic excellence, leadership and community-building efforts make her an outstanding candidate for the Rhodes Scholarship.”
Outside academics, she engaged deeply through debate activities which helped broaden her perspectives.
“What has truly set my UChicago experience apart is the accessibility and warmth of my professors,” noted Qu. “Their willingness to engage with students has sparked my intellectual curiosity."
Qu expressed gratitude towards her professors along with family members who supported her throughout preparations managed by College Center for Research Fellowships (CCRF).