If only I had known earlier. These were the 6 words that plagued my thoughts for months. Although my grandpa went for yearly checkups, the symptoms of his tumor went unnoticed. It was only when he suffered from severe headaches that we found out the tumor was in its last stages. I felt helpless knowing it was too late for any viable treatment. However, I was motivated to research and explore alternative options for better outcomes. I learned how AI could detect occurrences of tumors through scans that even doctors might overlook. More importantly, I realized Computer Science was my calling and set my passion for unwavering commitment to using technology and innovation to address real-world problems, particularly in Healthcare. Determined to explore this further, I interned at Elite Tech Info, where I worked on creating an AI model that detects abnormalities in ECG scans. As I began immersing myself in the training sessions, I learned to preprocess data, excluding noise and extracting features like Heart Rate Variability and R-R intervals. Even with the countless errors we ran into when running the model and multiple inaccuracy detections, working in this collaborative environment taught me how diverse perspectives allow for unique approaches, implementing new strategies to tackle each hurdle and convert any roadblock into a stepping stone for success. After building these novel models, I wondered how we could go further. This eagerness led me to join my school’s Biotechnology class, where I explored modern gene editing technologies like CRISPR and TALE, which modify DNA to treat diseases. I uncovered their DNA splicing mechanisms to excise parts of bacterial DNA to implant genetically encoded features, providing unique characteristics to cells. I began to see the potential of integrating CS into Biology to revolutionize our approach toward treatment. Computer Science, which once appeared only to detect diseases, has now become the source for finding cures as well. However, this initial interest in exploring the intersections of Computer Science and Biology developed into devotion as I worked on establishing new library rooms in government hostels in India, in addition to organizing book drives and shipping books to Botswana through the African Library Project. Seeing their joy in getting the opportunity to explore new stories through the books we delivered displayed the extent of their lack of resources. This experience, combined with a deeper understanding of disparities in healthcare access and the absence of preventative measures in underserved communities, fueled my determination to create solutions that are both effective and accessible to all. Losing my grandfather was one of my most painful experiences; however, it gave me an ambition: to save people with avertible illnesses. Therefore, by following the philosophy of “Do It or Die Trying,” I want to push myself to the limits and remain dedicated to addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues. By dedicating my college years to researching and developing novel innovations in AI, I hope to eventually establish an AI-focused health-tech company, producing impactful and affordable products that solve life-threatening diseases, and creating a future where fewer families are left wondering if only we had known earlier.

Books have played a significant role in shaping my worldview in many aspects. It wasn’t until I learned how limited educational opportunities are for many kids worldwide that I fully understood the importance of books. Malala Yousafzai once said, “One child, one teacher, one pen, and one book can change the world.” No better quote captures the beauty in books as great tools that can change people’s lives and close the gap between inequality and opportunity. I started my mission by partnering with the African Library Project and establishing a club at my school. Our first goal was to gather 2000 books using the motto Changing Lives. Book by book. We approached our neighborhood and asked them for donations. But, despite our efforts, we struggled to collect books. Realizing we needed a broader approach, I organized book donation drives in churches, town centers, and marketplaces. I divided responsibilities among club members to focus on outreach, book collection, fundraising, and shipping. After two months, we shipped the collected books to Botswana. Shortly after, I received videos of children eagerly flipping each page, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to explore each story. Their joy was contagious and made all of our efforts worth it. Knowing that I couldn’t leave this mission here, I wanted to extend the scope of my project in all possible ways. I collaborated with government hostel authorities in Andhra Pradesh, India, to convert unused hostel rooms into dedicated library spaces and donated books to support these libraries. As students in government hostels face economic inequalities, education would free them from poverty and enable them to create a brighter future. By providing books to children, I realized that I wasn’t just teaching them how to read; I was training them on how to dream, how to learn, and how to break free from their struggles. Although I only established a few libraries in Botswana and India, I hope our efforts will inspire more people to support the cause of providing educational resources, driven by the belief that we can make an impact – one book at a time.

If only I had known earlier. These were the 6 words that plagued my thoughts for months. Although my grandpa went for yearly checkups, the symptoms of his tumor went unnoticed. It was only when he suffered from severe headaches that we found out the tumor was in its last stages. I felt helpless knowing it was too late for any viable treatment. However, I was motivated to research and explore alternative options for better outcomes. I learned how AI could detect occurrences of tumors through scans that even doctors might overlook. More importantly, I realized Computer Science was my calling and set my passion for unwavering commitment to using technology and innovation to address real-world problems, particularly in Healthcare. Determined to explore this further, I interned at Elite Tech Info, where I worked on creating an AI model that detects abnormalities in ECG scans. As I began immersing myself in the training sessions, I learned to preprocess data, excluding noise and extracting features like Heart Rate Variability and R-R intervals. Even with the countless errors we ran into when running the model and multiple inaccuracy detections, working in this collaborative environment taught me how diverse perspectives allow for unique approaches, implementing new strategies to tackle each hurdle and convert any roadblock into a stepping stone for success. After building these novel models, I wondered how we could go further. This eagerness led me to join my school’s Biotechnology class, where I explored modern gene editing technologies like CRISPR and TALE, which modify DNA to treat diseases. I uncovered their DNA splicing mechanisms to excise parts of bacterial DNA to implant genetically encoded features, providing unique characteristics to cells. I began to see the potential of integrating CS into Biology to revolutionize our approach toward treatment. Computer Science, which once appeared only to detect diseases, has now become the source for finding cures as well. However, this initial interest in exploring the intersections of Computer Science and Biology developed into devotion as I worked on establishing new library rooms in government hostels in India, in addition to organizing book drives and shipping books to Botswana through the African Library Project. Seeing their joy in getting the opportunity to explore new stories through the books we delivered displayed the extent of their lack of resources. This experience, combined with a deeper understanding of disparities in healthcare access and the absence of preventative measures in underserved communities, fueled my determination to create solutions that are both effective and accessible to all. Losing my grandfather was one of my most painful experiences; however, it gave me an ambition: to save people with avertible illnesses. Therefore, by following the philosophy of “Do It or Die Trying,” I want to push myself to the limits and remain dedicated to addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues. By dedicating my college years to researching and developing novel innovations in AI, I hope to eventually establish an AI-focused health-tech company, producing impactful and affordable products that solve life-threatening diseases, and creating a future where fewer families are left wondering if only we had known earlier.

If only I had known earlier. These were the 6 words that plagued my thoughts for months. Although my grandpa went for yearly checkups, the symptoms of his tumor went unnoticed. It was only when he suffered from severe headaches we found out the tumor was in its last stages. I felt helpless knowing it was too late for any viable treatment. However, I was motivated to research and explore alternative options for better outcomes. I learned how AI could detect occurrences of tumors through scans that even doctors might overlook. More importantly, I realized Computer Science was my calling and set my passion for unwavering commitment to using technology and innovation to address real-world problems, particularly in Healthcare. Determined to explore this further, I interned at Elite Tech Info where I worked on creating an AI model that detects abnormalities in ECG scans. As I began immersing myself in the training sessions, I learned to preprocess data, excluding noise and extracting features like Heart Rate Variability and R-R intervals. Even with the countless errors we ran into when running the model and multiple inaccuracy detections, working in this collaborative environment taught me how diverse perspectives allow for unique approaches, implementing new strategies to tackle each hurdle and convert any roadblock as a stepping stone for success. After building these novel models, I wondered how we could go further. This eagerness led me to join my school’s Biotechnology class, where I explored modern gene editing technologies like CRISPR and TALE, which modify DNA to treat diseases. I uncovered their DNA splicing mechanisms to excise parts of bacterial DNA to implant genetically encoded features, providing unique characteristics to cells. I began to see the potential of integrating CS into Biology to revolutionize our approach toward treatment. Computer Science which once appeared only to detect diseases, now has become the source for finding cures as well. However, this initial interest in exploring the intersections of Computer Science and Biology developed into devotion as I worked on establishing new library rooms in government hostels in India. Seeing their joy in getting the opportunity to explore new stories through the books we delivered displayed the extent of their lack of resources. This experience, combined with a deeper understanding of disparities in healthcare access and the absence of preventative measures in underserved communities, fueled my determination to create solutions that are both effective and accessible to all. Losing my grandfather was one of my most painful experiences; however, it gave me an ambition: save people with avertible illnesses. Therefore, by following the philosophy of “Do It or Die Trying,” I want to push myself to the limits and remain dedicated to addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues. By dedicating my college years to researching and developing novel innovations in AI, I hope to eventually establish an AI-focused health-tech company, producing impactful and affordable products that solve life-threatening diseases and creating a future where fewer families are left wondering if only we had known earlier.

Could a quarterback’s perfect throw be related to some random lines of code? At first, this connection seemed impossible. However, I found my answer at CEO Leadership Alliance Orange County (CLAOC) where I got to work with professors Dr. Linstead and Dr. German on their startup Athletics in Silico. Our goal was to combine the worlds of Computer Science (CS) and Sports by developing an advanced player-tracking system for football teams. This project was the perfect fit – combining my passion for CS with my love for sports. The early stages of the project were overwhelming. The complexity of the model we aimed to build, coupled with the massive amount of data we had to process, made progress slow. After countless nights spent re-labeling game footage and dealing with the challenge of distinguishing players on the field, the model’s accuracy was still far from where we wanted it to be. The setbacks felt discouraging, but I knew that persistence was key. To overcome these challenges, I had to "turn it up to 11." With the guidance of my professors, I pushed myself to think creatively and work harder. We worked on redesigning our approach by integrating each of our three components – YOLO, CVAT, and Google Colab – in real-time. Our major breakthrough came when we designed a new birds-eye-view template using yard lines as reference points, giving the model a better framework for tracking. Slowly, the chaos of the football game now began to function in harmony. Our data labeling tool, game displaying mechanism, and model training playground, all worked seamlessly together like clockwork. Through this project, not only did I improve the model’s accuracy and my knowledge but also discovered the true value of persistence and collaboration. The countless hours I spent understanding the issues helped me learn the need to be determined to find solutions. I also uncovered a fascinating connection between the two distinct worlds of computer science and football. While separated by their driving force of instinct vs logic, both are connected by patterns and strategies to resolve problems. This project taught me that innovation emerges from tackling greater challenges and through constant persistence and dedication, nothing is impossible. In addition, I would definitely participate in a mentorship program with Inspire11. Their guidance would be incredibly valuable as I work to combine technology and healthcare. My time at CLAOC, where I helped develop an AI-powered player-tracking system, opened my eyes to the potential of AI beyond sports. This curiosity led me to my current work at Elite Tech, where I’m diving deeper into how AI can be used in healthcare, especially to predict and prevent diseases. On a personal level, my grandpa’s battle with a tumor has motivated me to explore how AI can make a difference in biology, particularly in detecting illnesses early. Through Inspire11, I hope to connect with mentors who can help me learn more about the intersection of AI and healthcare, guiding me to create solutions that could truly make a difference. With their support, I can continue to "turn it up to 11" by pushing the limits of what AI can do and working toward my goal of improving lives and making a real impact.

I sat in my Algebra class, listening intently as Ms. Kelly explained a concept I had struggled to grasp for days. For the first time, it all made sense. Yet, instead of simply feeling relieved that my doubts were finally cleared, I found myself captivated by her ability to transform such a complicated idea into something so simple. I wanted to understand her magic and, most importantly, to help others feel the same excitement I first felt. I knew many students in my community who felt math was out of their reach, so I decided to step in. I joined as a tutor in Agoura Math Circle (AMC), a nonprofit organization providing free educational resources to middle/high schoolers. Inspired by Ms. Kelly’s methods, I began preparing my own lectures consisting of food analogies and drawings to create a similar engaging start to each lesson. Then, through workshops and Kahoots, I slowly chipped their fear of approaching complex problems. With each meeting, I intentionally approached each concept as a story rather than a lesson. As they gained their confidence, I furthered this momentum through group challenges connecting concepts to real-life applications, making each lesson interactive and memorable. Through these strategies, the students who feared math now examined every problem with confidence. Math once thought of as memorizing formulas, now became their playground for creativity as they explored patterns and discovered multiple ways to approach solutions. Seeing each student return to AMC for more advanced concepts brings me immense joy, knowing I passed on the amazement that I once felt. With the huge success of the math tutoring program, I became the Assistant Vice President of AMC and started leading the Data Science class as well. I realized that tutoring did more than just empower the students – it instilled a passion in me. No matter the path I take, I’ve learned that pursuing something I am truly passionate about will always lead to excellence. Even small acts, like tutoring, can have a profound impact when done with dedication. Passion transforms effort into perfection, no matter the scale of the contribution.

If only I had known earlier. These were the 6 words that plagued my thoughts for months. Although my grandpa went for yearly checkups, the symptoms of his tumor went unnoticed. It was only when he suffered from severe headaches we found out the tumor was in its last stages. I felt helpless knowing it was too late for any viable treatment. However, I was motivated to research and explore alternative options for better outcomes. I learned how AI could detect occurrences of tumors through scans that even doctors might overlook. More importantly, I realized Computer Science was my calling and set my passion for unwavering commitment to using technology and innovation to address real-world problems, particularly in Healthcare. Determined to explore this further, I interned at Elite Tech Info where I worked on creating an AI model that detects abnormalities in ECG scans. As I began immersing myself in the training sessions, I learned to preprocess data, excluding noise and extracting features like Heart Rate Variability and R-R intervals. Even with the countless errors we ran into when running the model and multiple inaccuracy detections, working in this collaborative environment taught me how diverse perspectives allow for unique approaches, implementing new strategies to tackle each hurdle and convert any roadblock as a stepping stone for success. After building these novel models, I wondered how we could go further. This eagerness led me to join my school’s Biotechnology class, where I explored modern gene editing technologies like CRISPR and TALE, which modify DNA to treat diseases. I uncovered their DNA splicing mechanisms to excise parts of bacterial DNA to implant genetically encoded features, providing unique characteristics to cells. I began to see the potential of integrating CS into Biology to revolutionize our approach toward treatment. Computer Science which once appeared only to detect diseases, now has become the source for finding cures as well. However, this initial interest in exploring the intersections of Computer Science and Biology developed into devotion as I worked on establishing new library rooms in government hostels in India. Seeing their joy in getting the opportunity to explore new stories through the books we delivered displayed the extent of their lack of resources. This experience, combined with a deeper understanding of disparities in healthcare access and the absence of preventative measures in underserved communities, fueled my determination to create solutions that are both effective and accessible to all. Losing my grandfather was one of my most painful experiences; however, it gave me an ambition: save people with avertible illnesses. Therefore, by following the philosophy of “Do It or Die Trying,” I want to push myself to the limits and remain dedicated to addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues. By dedicating my college years to researching and developing novel innovations in AI, I hope to eventually establish an AI-focused health-tech company, producing impactful and affordable products that solve life-threatening diseases and creating a future where fewer families are left wondering if only we had known earlier.