Experience
Work, research, and programs that have shaped how I build and think.
Work Experience
Personal Projects
Independent Developer
- Designed and shipped multiple full-stack web apps end to end, from idea to deployed product.
- Fine-tuned machine learning models with PyTorch and ensemble methods for real-world tasks.
- Implemented computer vision pipelines, including work on autonomous vehicle models and aerial telemetry analysis.
Independent / Various Clients
Freelance & Contract Development
- Built and shipped custom Roblox games for companies and well-known content creators.
- Designed and developed websites for local businesses.
- Built internal apps and handled cybersecurity work for my school.
- Created mods for existing games, extending and customizing gameplay.
Research
Zayed University
Research Assistant — Neural Network Efficiency
- Assisting a professor on an ongoing neural network efficiency research project — specifics are confidential and not yet public.
- Gained hands-on exposure to real academic research practices and workflows beyond the classroom.
- Deepened my understanding of applied machine learning research through direct mentorship.
Programs & Activities
Independent Study
Self-Directed Learning
- Built a foundation in Calculus I and Linear Algebra to understand the math behind machine learning.
- Learned Python, Java, JavaScript, and C++ from the ground up, alongside HTML & CSS for the web.
- Studied data structures & algorithms and applied machine learning / data science, including libraries like NumPy, pandas, scikit-learn, and PyTorch.
Brewster Academy, New Hampshire, USA — ADIA Mustaqbali Scholars Pipeline
Brewster Academy Summer Program
- First experience studying and living abroad, adjusting to a new country, culture, and academic environment.
- Learned to live independently away from home for the first time — managing day-to-day life on my own in the US.
- Built long-term friendships and connections with peers from around the world that have lasted well beyond the program.
Columbia University, New York City — ADIA Scholarship Pipeline
Columbia University Pre-College Program
- Lived independently in New York City for three weeks, adapting to the pace and demands of a busy, unfamiliar city.
- Learned to represent the UAE abroad, carrying myself well and professionally outside of the classroom.
- Deepened my knowledge of data science, machine learning, and mathematics well beyond what I'd studied on my own.
- Made new friends and connections during the program, making it one of the best experiences of my life so far.