In the ECE319K introductory course to embedded systems, guided by Dr. Ramesh Yerraballi, my final project was the creation of a fully independent, 3D printed Guitar Hero game. The game was specifically designed to operate on the TI TIVA Launchpad TM4C microcontroller, demonstrating the depth of my expertise in working with embedded systems, C programming, ARM Assembly, and ARM Cortex-M technologies.

This project was a testament to the blend of hardware and software skills, as it involved designing an engaging, interactive game that mirrored the exciting essence of the original Guitar Hero, with the difference being that my version was completely stand-alone. Powered by an external battery pack, the game required no PC or console connections to function, providing an unparalleled, on-the-go gaming experience.

Executing this project in a challenging 2-week timeframe while preparing for final exams tested my capacity to effectively manage resources and deliver high-quality results under intense pressure.

The project also involved considerable CAD work modifictations the guitar interface. I modified some CAD parts online that were designed by josh designs, and printed them in the Texas Inventionworks Makerspace. I aimed to achieve an ergonomic and easy-to-use design that was subsequently brought to life using 3D printing technology. The resulting interface was not only aesthetically engaging but also functional, allowing users to directly interact with the game in an intuitive manner.

This project was a practical application of my knowledge of embedded systems and low-level programming languages, CAD skills, and ability to work under strict deadlines. It represented a significant accomplishment, proving my ability to create stand-alone, fully functional gaming systems.

The centerpiece of my final project for the ECE302H course, under the guidance of Dr. Alex Hanson, was the design and construction of a multifaceted Elevator Motor Bridge Driver PCB. This circuit board served as a comprehensive solution for harnessing the power generated by a photovoltaic cell to drive a motor.

The PCB was conceived using KiCad software and was composed of several integral components, each playing a pivotal role in its functioning. The heart of this system was the Texas Instruments TM4C microcontroller, which governed the operation and communication among other modules.

To ensure robust digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital conversion, I incorporated a 6-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) and a 4-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC). These devices were crucial in processing the signals flowing in and out of the microcontroller.

Alongside this, I designed a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) generator to control the power delivery to the motor. Coupled with this, a Motor Driver Half Bridge was included to provide the necessary drive current for the motor operation.

A sophisticated current sensor was also incorporated to ensure that the power delivery from the photovoltaic cell was effectively regulated. Additionally, the design included multiple test points across the PCB, which served as critical junctures for verifying voltage levels, thus enabling meticulous debugging and validation of the entire system.

Upon finalizing the PCB design, I painstakingly soldered the components, bringing the virtual design into reality. Post assembly, I tested the functionality of the PCB to validate its effectiveness in driving a motor using power from the photovoltaic cell.

A hill-climbing algorithm was implemented to maximize the power delivery efficiency, ensuring the optimal operation of the motor to drive an elevator. This endeavor, steeped in complexity, provided me a profound experience in Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design and enhanced my knowledge in managing multifaceted electronics components within a single system.

In the summer of 2021, I had the esteemed opportunity to intern as a SEES Urban Heat Island Effect Research Intern. During this period, I had the privilege to work under the mentorship of Dr. Kevin Czajkowski, a recognized authority in geospatial technologies, and his dedicated team.

The core of my research focused on modeling environmental factors in correlation to the Urban Heat Island Effect. This endeavor involved the advanced application of artificial intelligence technologies. Key to this process was the utilization of a machine learning cellular automata simulation, which enabled the visualization of the implications of urban sprawl on urban heat islands.

To ensure the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the research, I employed LANDSAT satellite and purple air data, manipulating these vast and complex data sets through GIS software. This methodology facilitated a profound understanding of the environmental patterns and trends associated with the Urban Heat Island Effect.

Upon completing my extensive analysis, I collated my findings into a well-articulated research paper. I then had the opportunity to present this paper to a panel of experts in the field, effectively communicating the profound impact of urban sprawl on the Urban Heat Island Effect.

This enriching internship with SEES significantly broadened my understanding of environmental science and honed my technical prowess in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and GIS software.

A year later, my exploration into the effects of the Urban Heat Island (UHI) did not stop. As part of my Advanced Placement Research, I continued my investigative journey, focusing on the relationship between particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5), land surface temperature (LST), and the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). Understanding these interconnections further unraveled the intricacies of the UHIE, a phenomenon causing urban regions to experience higher temperatures compared to their surrounding suburban and rural areas, largely due to increased impervious surfaces and diminished vegetation.

My research leveraged advanced spatial modeling techniques to process Landsat 8 satellite data, examining the influence of NDVI on LST and PM2.5 levels. PM2.5 data was sourced from PurpleAir, a small sensor aerosol monitoring network, providing reliable and granular information. The research focused on the greater Austin, TX region, a previously under-explored area in terms of UHIE, despite the availability of comprehensive data networks for the key variables.

Through methodical selection, thirty-five sample locations were identified across the Austin city region where Purple Air sensors were installed. This enabled a thorough understanding of spatial patterns and the variability in the UHIE data. The results were enlightening; a linear regression of LST and NDVI revealed a negative correlation (R=-0.602); NDVI and PM2.5 showed a negative correlation (R=-0.276); and LST and PM2.5 exhibited a positive correlation (R=0.155). These findings suggested that PM2.5 levels might intensify the UHIE, much like how urban areas with dense artificial land cover tend to have higher surface temperatures.

This study underscores the need for further research into the UHIE in the greater Austin, TX area, and other potential study areas, highlighting the profound influence that environmental factors such as PM2.5, LST, and NDVI have on our urban ecosystems. This continuing journey of research has not only enriched my understanding of environmental dynamics but also emphasized the importance of sustained investigation in addressing complex global issues.

In 2021, as part of KatyISD's GT Independent Mentorship (GTISM), my fascination with the aerospace industry and rocketry culminated in the project: 'Reaction Control System for Stabilization of a Model Rocket.' This endeavor was my proposed solution to a distinct problem - the lack of practical experience in model rocketry that can be applied to real-world scenarios. By developing a functional Reaction Control System (RCS), I was able to delve deep into the challenges faced in designing, testing, and integrating a crucial rocket subsystem.

Throughout this project, I was fortunate enough to be mentored by Shawn Victor, an Avionics Engineer for Blue Origin, and former president of UT makerspace. His guidance was instrumental in my research on existing cold gas propulsion mechanisms for small-scale projects. This project is the zenith of my engineering achievements to date, and the entire journey was an educational rollercoaster that allowed me to apply theoretical concepts into practical applications. It was a constant source of motivation, and it reaffirmed my passion for space exploration and engineering.

In terms of problem identification, my research highlighted a significant gap. The barrier of entry to the field of rocket science can be quite high for students and enthusiasts, often requiring advanced college degrees. However, the reality is that hands-on, amateur rocketry is not only possible but can be highly educational. This lack of accessible starting points can deter potential enthusiasts, leading to decreased interest and a slower growth rate in the field.

To combat this, my proposed solution was to create a universally adaptable Reaction Control System. I discovered that while many high school programs offer space-related education, they often lack the necessary challenge and depth to truly spark interest and learning. Furthermore, most of the available solutions were targeted towards nano-satellites, not rockets. Therefore, my work aimed to fill this gap by providing a comprehensive and challenging project for aspiring aerospace engineers.

In 2022, I took part in the Technology Student Association Video Game Design competition, where my team and I embarked on a journey to create Lunar, an innovative arcade game for a museum. We interpreted the competition's prompt "arcade museum" in a novel manner, crafting a narrative where the protagonist is sucked into an arcade machine situated in a museum's basement - a scenario reminiscent of the movie Jumanji. This unique approach allowed us to push the boundaries of conventional arcade games, culminating in Lunar securing the 2nd place at the Texas State competition.

The development of Lunar was a meticulous process, predicated on strategic planning and efficient task distribution. Our team brainstormed ideas that encapsulated the essence of an ancient Jade Rabbit story and themes of selflessness and cultural heritage. Following the ideation phase, we divided the game development tasks among team members, ensuring optimal workflow and maximizing team efficiency.

The creation of a comprehensive storyboard was a vital stage of our process. We conceptualized and sketched characters, designed immersive environments, and drafted potential challenges that the players would encounter in the game. The finalized storyboard served as a visual blueprint, informing our development decisions and setting the tone for the subsequent phases of the project.

We employed Unity, a powerful game development platform, to bring our storyboard to life. Unity enabled us to infuse Lunar with dynamic animations, immersive music, and other aesthetic elements that enriched the player's experience. The platform also facilitated the creation of the game model and environment, contributing significantly to the realization of our creative vision.

Asset gathering formed an essential part of our process. With utmost diligence, we handpicked digital assets such as characters and environmental elements to ensure alignment with Lunar's aesthetic and thematic framework. This meticulous selection process was instrumental in weaving a compelling and visually cohesive gaming experience.

In 2020, my journey in game development took its first step with the creation of Type Runner for the Technology Student Association Video Game Design competition. This project offered an immersive platform to amalgamate my skills in programming, modeling, graphic design, and planning, driving me to produce the best introductory game possible. Type Runner embodies the spirit of competition I love in video games, combined with the pedagogical aspect of teaching an essential skill - keyboarding.

Inspired by the athletic prowess showcased in the world-renowned Olympics, Type Runner was envisioned as a high-octane track and field game designed to bolster typing skills and acclimate players to keyboarding. It effectively melds the thrill of sports and competition with education and social value, capitalizing on the increasing ubiquity of keyboarding in our technology-oriented society. In doing so, it fast-tracks the transformation of motor-sensory skills into second nature, yielding quick and effective results.

But the allure of Type Runner goes beyond its educational mandate. Its competitive component is not only intense but also thoroughly entertaining. The game records individual high scores, total time run, and speed, fostering friendly competition and intense matchups among friends or colleagues. This social aspect of the game is its unique selling point, encouraging social interaction through a universally shared skill and strengthening bonds among players.

We competed in the Gulf Area conference, earning a spot in the Texas State competition in Fort Worth, Texas. However, the state competition was unfortunately canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Targeting a wide array of audience, Type Runner serves as a perfect tool for individuals new to computers or adjusting to a keyboarding environment. From an academic standpoint, it's a valuable resource for students eyeing higher education levels in almost any field. It also caters to those wanting to refine their keyboarding skills or develop proper form. At its core, Type Runner is a vibrant tool that impacts the learning of efficient keyboarding while providing an engaging gaming experience.

In 2020, I had the privilege of leading a team project, "Power Grid," for my Computer Science Data Structures class. Power Grid is a comprehensive board game incorporating elements of pathways, currency, and resource management. This project challenged us to construct everything from scratch - the graphics, game engine, algorithms, and integration, employing an array of data structures, including Arrays, ArrayLists, Linked Lists, Stacks, Queues, Binary Trees, and Red-Black Trees.

One of the highlights of the project was the creation of a detailed 23-page prospectus to lay the groundwork for the game's physical creation. This included a comprehensive UML (Unified Modeling Language) Diagram and a daily work plan to streamline our workflow and ensure every team member was on the same page. This meticulous preparation played an integral role in the successful execution of the project.

The project's crowning achievement, however, was the introduction to and application of graph theory and Dijkstra's algorithm. Graphs, being highly versatile and crucial data structures, became central to our game's mechanics. In our game, the nodes represented the cities that users could purchase and set up power plants in. The goal was to find the shortest path within the player's owned cities to purchase a city at the lowest cost. This practical application of Dijkstra's algorithm, along with concepts of Breadth-First Search and Depth-First Search, was a valuable learning experience.

Leading the Power Grid project served as my initial exposure to project management. It introduced me to the real-world application of computer science in the industry, giving me a deeper understanding of team dynamics and project execution. The project also offered a platform for collaboration with my teammates Ebaad Imran, Chandrashekar Jayendra, and Robert Way, contributing to the project's successful outcome.

In the summer of 2020, I joined Toontown Corporate Clash, a volunteer-driven project aiming to recreate the beloved MMORPG, Toontown Online, which was unfortunately shut down by Disney in 2013. As a part of the Corporate Clash Crew, comprised of over 50 passionate members, I served as a technical team member, working alongside individuals from a range of subteams including Creative, Moderation, Game Design, Community, and Support.

My primary role involved programming for the team and implementing the creative ideas brainstormed within our group into code through the Panda3D game engine that powers the game. The game's engine, a basic graphic engine largely based on Python libraries, presented unique challenges due to its lack of sophisticated 3D viewers like Unity or Unreal Engine. Learning and adapting to this engine significantly enhanced my understanding of computer graphics at their core.

While my initial responsibility was programming, I naturally evolved into a role where I created training materials for the team. I aimed to simplify the learning curve of our codebase and its organization, benefiting both existing team members looking to broaden their skill set, and new technical team members hoping to quickly familiarize themselves with our codebase. This aspect of my role provided me a deeper insight into web development, backend development with Amazon Web Services, codebase infrastructure, Astron, Distributed Objects, and the process of iterative updates.

Working with the Corporate Clash Crew offered me invaluable experiences beyond the confines of traditional programming courses. Not only did I learn how a fully remote software development team operates, but I also had the chance to work with a diverse set of individuals, each with unique backgrounds and stories, deviating from the standard perception of "Computer Science." It was truly inspiring to see how this project positively impacted many lives, showcasing how programming can be harnessed to create something that many are genuinely passionate about.

Between 2019 and 2020, my involvement with Team 4639, the RoboSpartans, in FIRST Robotics provided an enriching hands-on experience in robotics. In 2018-2019, as a freshman, I was eager to immerse myself in the team and its activities. My journey began with programming our robot, Prosperity, which required me to master Java and various computer science concepts. As my interests evolved, I delved into mechanical and electrical aspects, learning basic tasks like milling, lathing, soldering, and crimping. I gained a solid understanding of designing and creating a fully functional robot from scratch using nuts, bolts, sheet metal, and bearings. Prosperity, equipped with a mecanum drivetrain, ball intake/outtake, an elevator, and disk intake/outtake, competed in the FIRST in Texas Channelview and Del Rio District Events, and for the first time in the team's history, the Houston Championship in the Roebling Division.

Progressing into the 2019-2020 FRC Build Season, I took on a larger role as the electrical director's assistant, overseeing and managing the electrical team. We built our new robot, Beskar, featuring a tank drivetrain with omni wheels, ball intake, ball shooter, turret, and hook climbing mechanism. My responsibilities included soldering, wiring motors, managing power distribution, eliminating short-circuit possibilities, and accommodating space for the electrical and pneumatic systems. I also contributed to the initial prototype stages, further developing my engineering skills through mechanical work on the intake, shooter, and turret. Beskar was successful in the 2020 Channelview competition in Houston, where we placed third and served as team captains. However, due to the COVID-19 concerns, the robot did not compete in the planned Fort Worth and Louisiana events.

In 2019, as a member of Team 4639, The RoboSpartans, I had the opportunity to contribute significantly to the Middle School Winter Java Camp. This community-based initiative aimed to introduce young learners to key computer science concepts, such as syntax and data structures, laying the groundwork for future learning in AP Computer Science A. Besides sharing our knowledge, the camp also served as a fundraising effort for our club, successfully raising over $3000.

Under substantial time constraints, my dedicated team and I started planning the camp as early as November, preparing for the upcoming build season in January. Our responsibilities spanned across curriculum design, lesson delivery, and assessment preparation, including tests and quizzes. This project not only allowed me to share my passion for computer science but also unearthed a love for teaching. The enthusiasm and quick grasp of the students were truly rewarding, driving me to deliver the best learning experience possible.

Beyond its educational aspect, the Winter Camp offered me a deep dive into the business world, blending my two interests - business and computer science. I was involved in every facet of the business operation, from devising marketing strategies and advertising the camp to setting the pricing structure and presenting our plans to mentors. The camp proved to be financially successful, netting about $3000 after expenses. I identified the high demand in our community for such initiatives, with limited alternatives available, marking it as a potential, sustainable income source for our team. This experience also highlighted the importance of making such educational opportunities accessible to students, forming the foundation for my subsequent outreach projects.

The Middle School Summer Virtual Java Camp 2020, organized by Team 4639, The RoboSpartans, was a pioneering online fundraising initiative that aimed to foster a love for programming among young learners. We provided them with an introductory curriculum based on AP Computer Science A, covering essential concepts like syntax and data structures. We also equipped the students with free resources to continue their learning journey post-camp. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, this virtual endeavor was a resounding success, raising over $5000 for our club and demonstrating the potential of online education.

The pandemic's onset compelled us to rethink our approach to outreach, especially considering the uncertain economic conditions and potential loss of sponsors from the oil and gas industry. Transitioning to a more affordable, virtual platform proved to be a wise decision, enabling us to avoid physical contact while extending our reach. We conducted two sessions of the camp, spanning four days each over a week, and even offered scholarships or free admissions for students experiencing economic hardship.

What made this camp truly memorable was the surprise visit from four NASA engineers on the final day. They engaged with the students, sharing insights into the real-world applications of programming, their daily tasks, current NASA projects, and future opportunities. This interactive session, culminating in a Q&A, proved immensely beneficial and inspiring for the students. Feedback from both parents and students was overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing our intent to host similar events in the future.

Alongside the technical aspect of developing the 5-question quiz software for the 2021 FBLA Coding and Programming Competition, an integral component of the project was to approach and present it from a business professional's perspective. This multidimensional requirement necessitated a holistic understanding of both the technical and business realms and the interplay between them.

The software was not just an isolated piece of code but a tangible solution aimed at fulfilling a specific need in the market. It was thus imperative to articulate its value proposition, market relevance, potential user base, and financial feasibility effectively. Throughout the development and presentation stages, I ensured to factor in these business considerations, thereby demonstrating my ability to not just create but also successfully pitch a software product in a business setting.

Communicating the intricacies of the software, its development process, and its benefits in a business-friendly language was a crucial part of the presentation. This included outlining the software's features, the problem it solves, its competitive advantage, and its market potential. Also, I emphasized how the software adheres to industry standards and best practices, leveraging established tools, and methods. This experience highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between technology and business, a vital aspect of being a successful software professional in today's competitive landscape.

Alongside the technical aspect of developing the 5-question quiz software for the 2021 FBLA Coding and Programming Competition, an integral component of the project was to approach and present it from a business professional's perspective. This multidimensional requirement necessitated a holistic understanding of both the technical and business realms and the interplay between them.

The software was not just an isolated piece of code but a tangible solution aimed at fulfilling a specific need in the market. It was thus imperative to articulate its value proposition, market relevance, potential user base, and financial feasibility effectively. Throughout the development and presentation stages, I ensured to factor in these business considerations, thereby demonstrating my ability to not just create but also successfully pitch a software product in a business setting.

Communicating the intricacies of the software, its development process, and its benefits in a business-friendly language was a crucial part of the presentation. This included outlining the software's features, the problem it solves, its competitive advantage, and its market potential. Also, I emphasized how the software adheres to industry standards and best practices, leveraging established tools, and methods. This experience highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between technology and business, a vital aspect of being a successful software professional in today's competitive landscape.

The Computer Science Data Structures course at Seven Lakes High School is a sophomore-level class that offers an in-depth, college-level understanding of Data Structures and Algorithms. The curriculum provides a comprehensive blend of labs, projects, and tests to ensure a thorough learning experience.

During the course, students gain profound knowledge of Big O notation and Time Complexity, crucial concepts for analyzing the efficiency of algorithms. They are also introduced to the importance of memory efficiency in programming, further deepening their understanding of computer science.

Various data structures are explored throughout the course, each with its own unique characteristics and applications. These include Singly Linked Lists and Doubly Linked Lists, which are linear data structures with diverse uses in computer science. Students also study Graphs, fundamental structures for representing connections and relationships, and delve into Path Finding Algorithms, vital for solving routing problems.

Other data structures taught in the course include Stacks, Queues, Hash Maps, Tree Maps, and Hash Tables, each providing different ways to store and organize data efficiently. Students learn about Binary Search Trees, Red-Black Trees, and AVL Trees, all of which are types of self-balancing binary search trees with their own set of properties and use cases.

Project work forms an integral part of the course. The first project is an individual assignment involving the creation of an UNO game using Java graphics toolkits. This is followed by a complex group project where students recreate the popular board game "Seven Wonders" using Java. The final project challenges students to replicate "Power Grid", a demanding board game that requires an advanced level of functional and creative skills.