The first time I fell in love with problem-solving, I wasn’t in a classroom—I was holding a controller. I was deep into a Zelda dungeon, stuck on a puzzle that seemed impossible. But instead of giving up or searching for a walkthrough, I kept trying. Step by step, I mapped out the solution. Hours passed, and I finally figured it out. I didn’t realize it then, but that moment of struggle, analysis, and ultimate success mirrored what I would later fall in love with in computer science. That mindset—being curious, determined, and willing to break complex problems into smaller, more solvable pieces—has shaped who I am today. My passion for computer science really took off when my dad enrolled me in a Minecraft-based coding class. From making basic animations to more advanced projects involving APIs and web development, I was hooked. What fascinated me most was how a few lines of code could turn an idea into something interactive and impactful. My interest in real-world applications of computer science deepened when I built FitnessAI, an AI-powered web app I designed to help my parents stay on track with their fitness goals. Using Flask and OpenAI’s API (along with Google Gemini and Hugging Face APIs), I created a system that could generate custom workouts, track calories, and track real-time body positions through the user’s webcam to provide interactive feedback. It’s kind of like a virtual trainer. What started as a solution for my family became a passion project aimed at helping anyone who struggles with consistency in the gym. The project also won first place in an AI competition, but more importantly, it taught me that code isn't just about tech, it's about people. During my internship at National Instruments (NI), I took those skills to the next level by automating over 300 steps of a licensing review process. I created, modified, and deleted backend entries using HTTP requests, and wrote over 200-unit tests to ensure reliability and error handling. It wasn’t glamorous work, but it was deeply rewarding. I saw firsthand how software could make teams more efficient and improve workflows—not with some flashy breakthrough, but with deliberate, thoughtful engineering. Reading about Arthur Walasek’s legacy, I felt an unexpected connection. Like him, I started coding through a personal hobby. For Arthur, it was gaming and eventually dazzling holiday displays and AI. For me, the gym has always been one of my biggest hobbies and I was inspired to motivate and improve the gym experience for my parents and, eventually, for anyone who needed help. Both of us found joy in tinkering, building, and creating tech that brings light (sometimes literally) into people’s lives. In the future, I want to work in AI-driven product development, especially in industries like healthcare, fitness, and education. These are areas where smart technology can truly improve lives, making knowledge more accessible, healthcare more efficient, and fitness more attainable. Whether it’s building tools to support mental wellness or apps that help students learn faster, I want to use AI not just for its tech savviness, but for its transformative potential. I want to wake up knowing the tools I build make someone’s life just a little easier, healthier, or happier. That’s what inspires me: solving real problems for real people, using the language of logic, creativity, and empathy that I’ve come to know as computer science.

Growing up, I’ve always found joy in bringing smiles to others—whether through a small act of kindness or by being part of something bigger. As a high school senior, my passion for service has deepened, and I continue to be inspired by the people I meet and the difference we can make together. I’m driven to contribute to my community and to carry forward the lessons I’ve learned through my experiences volunteering. One of my most memorable volunteer experiences was at the City of Pflugerville’s Easter egg hunt. As thousands of candy-filled eggs were scattered across the field, I noticed a few young children struggling to keep up with the crowd. Their faces fell as they watched others scoop up eggs, feeling left behind. Instead of simply giving them extra eggs, I decided to “hide” a few near them, allowing them to find them on their own. Watching their faces light up as they discovered eggs they thought they’d missed was a moment I’ll never forget. In that instant, I realized that sometimes the smallest acts, like offering someone a moment of joy or support, can have a profound impact. It wasn’t about praise or recognition—it was about showing others that they matter and deserve to feel included. Beyond events like the Easter egg hunt, I’ve volunteered at my town’s Deutschen Pfest festival, where I’ve helped with everything from setting up booths to assisting families with finding the kids’ play area. The festival is a long-standing tradition in our town, filling the park with vibrant music, the tantalizing smell of bratwurst and pretzels, and the infectious laughter of visitors. The energy at the festival is contagious, and being part of it—helping make it an enjoyable experience for others—has been a rewarding way to contribute to our community. From helping vendors unload heavy bags to showing families where they can find their favorite activities, I’ve learned that it’s often the smallest gestures that make the biggest impact. Each time I helped a family navigate the event, whether it was directing them to the kids' play area or answering a question, I could see how much it meant to them to feel welcomed and supported. The festival creates a sense of unity, and being part of that has been truly fulfilling. It’s a moment each year when I’m reminded of the power of community—when people come together from all walks of life to enjoy something special and feel a sense of belonging. I’ve also volunteered as a tutor with Code2College (coding extracurricular), empowering younger students to pursue their interest in STEM. This has allowed me to give back to the community that has supported me, helping others unlock their potential just as I’ve had the opportunity to do. Looking ahead, I plan to continue making a positive impact through service. I want to ensure that students who face barriers have the same opportunities to succeed that I’ve had, just as others have helped me along my journey. Whether through tutoring, community service, or simply being a compassionate listener, I will continue to contribute in ways that help others feel valued, supported, and empowered. I’m excited for the opportunity to keep giving back, using my skills and experiences to better the community I’m a part of, both now and in the future.

Math has always been my constant, a subject that not only makes sense to me but also challenges me in ways that feel rewarding. Solving a math problem is like navigating through a complex maze. There are different paths, twists, and turns you can take, but no matter which direction you choose, you know there’s a solution waiting to be discovered at the end. It’s that process of discovery, that journey toward the answer, that I find most fulfilling. The beauty of math lies in its simplicity and complexity all at once. Take a single equation. On the surface, it may appear to have one correct answer, but there are countless ways to reach it. Like an artist choosing their medium, math gives you the freedom to approach problems in different ways, depending on your understanding and creativity. It’s that variety of methods, those countless approaches, that I find exhilarating. Solving a problem isn’t just about getting to the right answer, it’s about discovering how you got there and the choices you made along the way. This is the same mindset I bring to life outside the classroom. When I’m faced with a difficult coding problem or designing an engineering solution, I approach it like I would a math problem—breaking it down into manageable parts, trying different strategies, and learning from each failed attempt. Much like math, life requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to tackle challenges head-on. What makes math truly special for me is the sense of accomplishment when everything clicks. It’s like finally finding the exit to that maze after hours of wandering—an overwhelming feeling of clarity and relief. Every formula or theorem mastered feels like another layer of understanding added to the way I view the world. And that’s what math has done for me—it’s shaped how I think, how I approach problems, and how I persist through challenges. Math isn’t just a subject I’m good at; it’s a skill that has shaped my passion for STEM, whether in programming or engineering. It’s the universal language behind everything I love. The same principles of problem-solving, logical thinking, and creativity that math teaches have become the core of who I am. And for that, math will always be more than numbers—it will be a lifelong companion, guiding me through the many mazes I have yet to solve.

Jigglypuff? That was the question everyone in the room was asking when I selected that character. The name might sound harmless, but in the midst of a heated gaming arena, it transformed into a symbol of triumph. Picture this: the dimly lit room, filled with the electric hum of anticipation, where the air crackles with excitement and the occasional cheer reverberates off the walls. When I think about my favorite co-op Nintendo games, two titles instantly come to mind: Super Smash Bros and Mario Kart. Both games have provided me with countless hours of joy, but if I had to choose one that stands out the most, Smash takes the crown. The game has offered unforgettable moments that have shaped some of my most cherished memories. The story begins when Smash was first released on Switch. I was part of a church group that brought together kids of all ages. It was a place where we bonded over Christ and other shared activities, and when Smash hit the shelves, it quickly became the centerpiece of our “game time.” The excitement continued to build as we crowded around the TV each week, controllers in hand, ready to dive into the action. What began as casual gaming sessions soon transformed into full-blown tournaments. The initial friendly matches evolved into intense, competitive showdowns. The hype surrounding these tournaments was unprecedented. It wasn’t just about playing a game; it was about being part of something much bigger. One particular tournament stands out vividly. It was the final round, and the room was packed with kids and even some of the church workers, all eager to see who would come out on top. It was a 1v1 against one of the other workers. I chose my main character: Jigglypuff. A decision that raised eyebrows. Jigglypuff isn’t known for being the strongest character, but I had a well-planned strategy. As the match progressed, the tension in the room became almost unbearable. My opponent played aggressively, and I had to remain patient, waiting for the perfect moment. The battle was fierce, with both of us on a single stock left. The room was silent except for the sounds of the game and the occasional cheer or gasp from the spectators. Then, it happened. I seized the opportunity with Jigglypuff’s ultimate move. Rest. Time seemed to slow down as Jigglypuff executed the move, and for a brief instant, it felt like everyone was holding their breath. Suddenly, my opponent’s character was sent flying off the screen. I had won. The room erupted in cheers, and the hype was unreal. The victory wasn’t just about the win itself but about how it came about. A mere kid, the underdog character, the risky move, and the perfect execution combined to create a moment of pure gaming bliss. That win became legendary in our group, solidifying Smash as more than just a game; it became an experience that brought us all together in a way that God intended. Who would’ve thought that Super Smash Bros could lead to such meaningful experiences? For me, the game is more than just a pastime. It represents connection, competition, and the joy of shared experiences. Every time I pick up a controller, I’m reminded of those tournaments, the friends I made, and the excitement of playing a game that has become so much more than just a way to pass the time. It’s a part of who I am, a reminder that the simplest pleasures can create the most profound memories.