Hello everyone,
I'm an international student aiming to apply for fully funded PhD programs in Computer Science (T50 in the US), with a focus on Systems Programming, Programming Languages, Databases, or Hardware Architecture. I understand that it's impossible to predict admission chances precisely, but I'm looking for actionable advice on how to significantly strengthen my profile over the next +-2 years before I apply. My Background:
GPA: +- 3.8 - 3.9 (I used conversion tool)
Authored papers in Machine Learning and Databases. I currently have one preprint on arXiv and one paper in WoS-indexed journal. Additional peer-reviewed papers published in leading national journals in my home country (including VAK and RINC listed venues).
Also I have some projects:
A compiler with AST and microcode generation for x86_32 and x86_64 (currently working on transitioning from microcode to machine code generation).
An i386 operating system with ELF support, threading, and basic graphics.
A Machine Learning library in pure C# implementing CNNs, RNNs, and GANs.
A DBMS for embedded systems with noise-immune encoding for data.
A noise-immune file system for embedded systems.
A 3D engine written entirely in pure C#
Also I already have little work experience in internships at several relatively well-known companies in my home country that work on OS development, CPU design, and database systems.
My main goal is to receive feedback on what I can do over the next two years to become a strong candidate for PhD programs in my target areas — whether it's research, internships, open-source contributions, coursework, or something else. Thank you in advance for your insights and guidance!