Resume

Masters of Science, Mechanical Engineering: Spring 2025

GPA: 3.850

University of Nevada, Reno

Bachelors of Science, Mechanical Engineering: Spring 2023

Minor in Mathematics

GPA: 3.828

Green Valley High School

My thesis focused on the numerical modeling, analysis, and experimental validation of nonlinear shape-morphing plates. I split the work into three main parts. First, I modeled the system’s nonlinear dynamics using an equivalent Duffing oscillator to interpret FEA frequency response data. I used least squares and numerical optimization to extract system parameters and run simulations.

In the second part, I built a machine learning framework to explore the design space more efficiently. I tested different models and found “Bagged Trees” worked best for this application. I trained it on randomized parameter data and used it to compare against FEA results for validation.

The final section covered experimental work using Macro Fiber Composites (MFCs) to actuate flexible plates. I tested multiple actuation architectures and found that two MFCs on an aluminum substrate outperformed single-MFC setups by over 5x in displacement amplitude. I also optimized material and shape, eventually settling on an A-30 silicone rubber plate inspired by an “emarginate tail” design. Through embedded MFCs, I was able to reduce displacement by up to 31%, increase it by 200% via constructive interference, and shift resonant frequencies dynamically. The results confirmed that shape-morphing could be achieved both numerically and physically, marking the first experimental demo of this system.

This one’s exactly what it sounds like—a night vision motion tracking system built using infrared and high exposure to capture images in the dark. I used a Raspberry Pi to process the feed and ran the YOLO (You Only Look Once) machine learning algorithm to detect and track people. Once someone leaves a designated area, a servo motor kicks in and moves accordingly. The end goal? To mount this setup inside a mannequin head for use in a haunted house—specifically Dark Corner Haunted House, where I worked. The project’s still in development, though—turns out the Raspberry Pi 3B’s 1GB of RAM is a major bottleneck, limiting the frame refresh rate to once per second, which is too slow for what I need. But it’s getting there. 

I’ve been involved with Chabad on Campus since it first started at UNR in 2022 with the Liberson family—Rochel, Dani, and now their three kids as of summer 2025. I was always one of the core members, but I officially stepped into a leadership role during 2023 and 2024. I helped plan events like the Purim party at The Fox Bar and another one at Blind Dog Coffee & Bar in downtown Reno. I also took part in the Vayakri student teaching program, where I helped teach fellow students about topics like communication and happiness. It’s been an experience I’m genuinely grateful for, and I really hope my friendship with Dani continues for years to come—he’s supported me more than he probably knows. 

In summer 2024, I hosted a charity raffle after deciding to shave my head one time for the one time. Instead of just doing it myself, I figured—why not make it interesting? I set up a raffle where the winner would get to shave my head, and all the funds went to The Trevor Project, an organization supporting LGBTQ+ youth and suicide prevention. We ended up raising over $1,000, and the winner, Matthew Levesque, shaved my head live on camera. Honestly, it was a great time—and I didn’t even look that bad bald, which was a major concern. 

A key role in the development of ASME by creating flyers using Microsoft office, communicating with engineering companies, and maintaining recruitment through a social media page. Developing skills in machine shop working and 3d modeling. Immediately placed in a leadership position of vice president. 

This project started after seeing a neighbor’s Christmas setup—flashing lights perfectly synced to music, with a sign that said, “Tune into 102.3.” When I did, the lights and music lined up and gave me goosebumps. I wanted that same effect for my apartment window. The plan was to use a set of 16x16 LED panels to play 8-bit-style animations synced to music, broadcast over a custom FM channel.

After a lot of frustration, Excel headaches, and trial-and-error, I found a program that could convert GIF inputs into Arduino-ready code. For the audio side, I got a transmitter and a soundboard to store and play music. That’s when I hit a roadblock: turns out iPhones can’t tune into FM radio, even with apps. The project stalled—until I got my hands on Bluetooth microcontrollers that could beam audio directly to phones.

Version 1 is mostly complete now. I scrapped the FM idea and used WLED (a newer program) to control the lights, building a synced light show and projecting it out of my lab window at the university. I had to deconstruct the setup for a move, but it worked—and it looked great. A 3D-printed enclosure is in the planning phase now since the original one was literally made of foamcore. Long story short: V1 works, and V2 is already on the horizon.

Upon arrival at college, I got to see a plethora of different views and backgrounds, and I looked forward to exploring our differences. In order to meet people I wouldn't naturally come across, I developed a reason for us to connect: social posters. I grabbed a poster from the Wolf Shop and a few markers and walked around the Joe Crowley Student Union. Currently, I have created four social posters: Uncensored senior quotes, small drawings, music recommendations, and questions you wish you knew the answers to. This was a magical experience and really pushed me to interact socially with many individuals.

My editing experience began in middle school when I got a big camcorder and recorded New Year's for the first time. From then on, every time there was an opportunity to make a video for classes, I took it. Over the years, I have used many software programs, including iMovie, DaVinci Resolve, and Premiere Pro. I haven't edited much since the emergence of new and upcoming AI that can do editing for us. Nevertheless, I have made a large number of videos, including vlogs, ASMRs, and music videos.