CAREER EXPLORATION

During my time in high school, I have gained work experience through building my own computer and doing short projects throughout my Honors engineering classes. For example, in 9th grade, I had built my own computer, which required me to use all facets of electronic hardware understanding, and electrical safety handling, which I adequately performed. This allowed me to build a PC that I still use to this day, and it allows me to understand deeper into the electrical hardware/component world. Throughout my 10th grade year, in Honors Principles of Engineering, I worked on a series of engineering projects. These projects included, Compound Machines integrations, Bride Designs, Upcycling projects, Netlogo Simulations, and an Entrepreneurship project consisting of all the knowledge we have learned to create a Maglev Smart bike design that in theory, uses sound to power itself. In 11th grade, I took Honors Digital Electronics, where we majorly focus on micro conductors, ICs, and logic board designs. We have done one project so far that focused on breadboard design of a 555 timer circuit using ICs and a clock circuit to time the probe activations. In the future, in 12th grade, I am taking Honors Aerospace Engineering, where I will be able to exercise my interest in aeronautical engineering.

 

 With my sprawling interests, I had looked into possible internships and career options in the near future, to aid me for my major selections in college. On Glassdoor, LinkedIn, company websites, and youtube, I have been watching many videos on Electrical engineering, software coding, hardware design/firmware coding, quantum engineering, and aerospace/nautical engineering careers. Throughout my research I gained great interest into electronic hardware design and coding careers both for my interest and pay, but still have a side-interest in business to help lead a business properly. Although I seem strongly interested in these careers, I still feel torn between careers listed above and quantum engineering/aerospace engineering. I also learned that EEC is a strong competitor in the electrical world, second to programming. I feel that if I follow this route and learn certification courses in coding, I can become a well-versed engineer in the ever-changing world. This research helped influence my career choice as it gave me a good stance of interest over reality. It allowed me to choose a possible career choice that would be both valued in society/provide happiness for me, while still generating revenue amongst the top 25% of the society.

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 I have applied to a summer internship at Zadar Labs, a start-up founded in South San Jose, focused on 4D radar-mapping used for military applications. I believe through this internship, I can learn the needed skills to become a successful firmware coder, strong electrical hardware engineer, and an entry-level data analyst.

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Currently I am an Engineering Project Manager at a nonprofit organization(501c3). The nonprofit is called Lift and Shift Foundation. Through a variety of programs and initiatives, the foundation aims to lift individuals up and shift their trajectory towards success. Their work focuses on providing access to education, training, and resources to help individuals reach their full potential. The foundation also works to address systemic issues that contribute to inequality and lack of opportunity, advocating for change at the policy level. With a strong commitment to social justice and community empowerment, the Lift and Shift Foundation is making a significant impact in the lives of those they serve. My role is to oversee other interns and create interesting an interactive 3D models for the line-tracing battle bot, and a gateway for veterans learning STEM. I will be working in this internship indefinitely, and my position is set to promote.