Hey,
My name is Kaushik Pendiyala! I am a sophomore at UC Davis studying Computer Science. I am also considering taking a minor in Economics.
As a second year student with a passion in Software Development and Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, my future goals are tailored towards my commitment to contribute meaningfully to the development of new/existing technologies while addressing real-world problems. In terms of academics, I hope to pursue a master's degree or even a Ph.D. to delve deeper into specialized areas of computer science (after attaining my bachelors degree). Simultaneously, I want to work with innovative tech companies or research institutions and be at the forefront of new, technological advancements. Ultimately, I see myself in a leadership role, contributing directly to technological projects that help revolutionize society in a positive way. These are some of my aspirations pertaining to my career as of now, but I'm confident that this will change as I progress through my academics and integrate new experiences.
I was born in India but relocated to the United States at the age of 2. Growing up with both of my parents actively engaged in the tech industry, technology has been an integral part of my life from a young age. Being a sports fanatic, my fascination with the various stats, graphics, and visuals during basketball and football games drew me toward technology. This early exposure led me to explore programming, and my passion solidified when I took my first programming class in freshman year of high school. The blend of creativity, problem-solving, and limitless possibilities in programming instantly captivated me. As I progressed through high school, I sought not only to learn but also to apply my knowledge on real-life projects. Joining the ASDRP (Advanced Summer Research Program), I collaborated with like-minded peers on a research project, marking my introduction to the world of research, an experience I thoroughly enjoyed. Motivated by a shared interest, I co-founded a quantum computing club with friends, recognizing the potential of quantum computers as the future. These diverse experiences, among others, ultimately influenced my decision to pursue a Computer Science major at UC Davis. At Davis, I volunteered as a CS tutor, assisting fellow students in courses I had already taken. This role not only enhanced my communication skills but also reinforced my programming foundations while facilitating continuous learning. I'm looking forward to exploring advanced concepts, learning about emerging technologies, and gaining a deeper understanding of the field through learning from experienced mentors.
Technical Skills: C/C++, R, Python, Java, Arduino, MATLAB, HTML/CSS, JS
Relevant Coursework: Data Structures & Algorithms, Software Development & Object-Oriented Programming, Programming & Problem Solving, Discrete Mathematics, Computer Organization & Machine-Dependent Programming, Calculus I/II/III, Linear Algebra, Statistical Data Science I/II/III
Experience:
CS Tutoring at UCD, Davis, CA - Computer Science Tutor - (Oct 2023 – Present)
- Provided one-on-one sessions to assist UC Davis undergraduate students with computer science coursework.
- Tutored students in a variety of subjects, including C++/Python fundamentals, Software Development & Object-Oriented Programming, Discrete Mathematics, and Assembly Language
- Aspiring Scholars Directed Research Program, Fremont, CA June 2021 – Aug 2021
Aspiring Scholars Directed Research Program, Fremont, CA - Student Researcher (LEAF Team) - (June 2021 – Aug 2021)
- Worked on the LEAF (Local Ecology & Agriculture Fremont) project as a member of both the hardware and software team to help collect and analyze soil data on plots of land intended for future cultivation
- Built NPK Sensors with Arduino Uno to measure nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels in soils
- Helped program a PHP endpoint that extracts values from GET requests and stores them on SQL servers
- Built a Linux-based predictive mathematical model utilizing machine learning to interpret results from the sensors
- Started developing a web-based application to display our results and recommend remediative treatments to LEAF leadership.
- Worked with ASDRP’s biology team and presented our research to ASDRP and LEAF management
Quantum Computing Club, Dublin, CA - President/Co-founder - (Jan 2020 – June 2022)
- Designed and developed comprehensive lessons on quantum computing fundamentals.
- Conducted interactive sessions for over 20 students on a bi-monthly basis through Zoom
- Included slides for instruction, activities, and formative quizzes.
- Managed the Quantum Computing Club server for optimal functionality and accessibility
Hobbies:
- Basketball
- Football
- Chess
- Video games