Beyond the Books

My passion for robotics began in a competitive high school program, where I was a key programmer for our FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge) team. Using Java and a deep dive into computer vision, I developed complex algorithms that allowed our robots to navigate and complete tasks autonomously. Our team's success has been recognized with awards including the Motivate Award (2025) and Control Award (2024).

My role extended beyond the lab as I was also responsible for team outreach. I mentored junior developers and traveled to schools across the Bay Area to teach kids about robotics, fostering the next generation of engineers and programmers.

I believe that true understanding comes from teaching others. As a volunteer tutor with platforms like Schoolhouse.world and YAPA Kids, I've had the privilege of mentoring students in subjects ranging from math and English to SAT prep. This passion for education directly inspired the creation of TeachNova in May 2023, my AI-powered platform that now serves 200+ educators across 5+ countries.

This role has not only solidified my own knowledge but has also cultivated my empathy and communication skills. It's a passion that connects my academic pursuits with my desire to make a direct, positive impact on others' lives.

My love for languages, particularly French, has taught me that effective communication is about more than just words—it's about understanding culture, context, and nuance. As a gold medalist in the National French Contest, I found a rewarding parallel between language acquisition and design.

Both require a meticulous and empathetic approach to new systems, allowing me to better understand and connect with diverse audiences. This skill is invaluable for creating products that are truly global and inclusive.

My involvement in the Astronomy Club is fueled by a profound sense of curiosity and a fascination with the unknown. It's an intersection of physics, data analysis, and visual observation that has trained my mind to look for patterns in complexity.

Whether I'm processing astronomical images or designing a user flow, this passion for exploration and discovery underpins my work, driving me to ask the big questions and find elegant solutions. The vastness of space reminds me that there's always more to learn and discover.