How It All Began

Growing up, I was captivated by the elegance of mathematics. Numbers, patterns, and equations felt like a universal language that could decode the mysteries of the world. Whether solving puzzles or exploring new concepts, math was my comfort zone. But as I delved deeper, I realized that while math provided clarity, it lacked the hands-on, transformative power to shape the physical world around me. That realization steered me toward engineering. Engineering allowed me to take the abstract beauty of math and turn it into tangible solutions.

When I arrived at MIT, it felt like stepping into a world of infinite possibilities. Majoring in Course 2, Mechanical Engineering, I was introduced to dynamics and controls, which became my academic foundation. My classes were demanding but exhilarating, challenging me to think critically and creatively. One of my earliest projects — a gear-driven cart capable of climbing a 60-degree slope — taught me the art of iterative design. Every failure, adjustment, and breakthrough brought me closer to understanding not just the problem at hand but also the joy of creation. That project wasn’t just an academic exercise; it was a lesson in perseverance, adaptability, and the thrill of problem-solving.

Beyond the classroom, MIT was a playground for exploration. The culture of innovation encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and try things I never imagined, like designing a toy or making anatomically steel fashion chokers. Yet, for all its opportunities, MIT could also feel overwhelming, which could honestly be it’s own completely separate multi-part post. I found grounding in the communities I became part of. I would be remiss if I didn’t include the profound impact the Black community at MIT and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) had on my journey of discovery. NSBE, the Black community at MIT, and my peers within Course 2 provided mentorship, camaraderie, and support when I needed it most. They reminded me that I wasn’t alone in my journey and that success was as much about leaning on others as it was about personal effort.

My summers became an extension of my academic journey and a time to explore how engineering intersected with the real world. One summer, I worked as a Systems Engineering intern at Raytheon, analyzing surveillance technologies and ensuring compliance with technical regulations. Another summer, I stepped into the world of consulting as a Management Consulting Summer Analyst at Accenture, where I saw how engineering principles could be applied to organizational challenges. Each experience expanded my understanding of what engineering could look like outside the classroom, sparking an interest in research and strategic problem-solving.

At the same time, teaching and mentorship remained a constant in my life. Since high school, I have been tutoring peers and organizing math club sessions. During my college summers, I volunteered with Breakthrough Miami and AoPS’s Bridge to Enter Advanced Mathematics, working with students from underserved communities to explore STEM in ways that were both challenging and fun. These experiences weren’t just about sharing knowledge; they were about giving back and helping others see their potential. Watching students wrestle with complex ideas and then light up with understanding reminded me why I loved STEM in the first place.

Discovering AI

My journey into artificial intelligence began somewhat unexpectedly during my graduate studies at Stanford University. While my undergraduate years at MIT had given me a solid foundation in mechanical engineering, it was at Stanford and within Stanford’s Dynamic Design Lab (DDL) that I first encountered the intersection of engineering and AI. The lab focused on the design and control of motion, particularly as it applied to vehicles, and I was immediately drawn to the problem-solving opportunities it presented. My initial projects revolved around motion planning and safety for autonomous cars, where I learned how algorithms could make real-time decisions in complex environments. This was paired with various classes where I built robots that utilized decision making and explored the concept of Markov Decision Processes (MDPs).

One of the most intriguing aspects of my work at DDL was the application of value-sensitive design, a framework that ensures technological advancements align with societal values. In the context of autonomous vehicles, this meant grappling with questions about ethical decision-making, user trust, and long-term impact. I collaborated with peers from diverse disciplines to develop AI systems that not only optimized performance but also addressed broader human concerns. These discussions introduced me to the vast potential and responsibility of AI as a transformative force in society.

The skills I developed in understanding data patterns, designing intelligent systems, and grappling with ethical dilemmas set the stage for my current work as a Data Engineer at Aimpoint Digital, where I continue to explore AI’s role in creating practical, impactful solutions. Looking back, my introduction to AI wasn’t just about mastering technical concepts; it was about learning to see the world differently

Teaching at Inspirit AI

When I began teaching at Inspirit AI, it felt like coming full circle. At Inspirit, I’ve had the privilege of guiding high school students through foundational AI concepts, hands-on coding exercises, and socially impactful projects. I am inspired by all of my students and how they develop innovative ideas, like AI models to spot deepfake images or algorithms to differentiate between types of celestial objects based on spectroscopic data.

One particularly special moment was a final presentation by a student who had initially struggled with Python syntax but went on to create multiple AI models with a team to analyze the ethics of algorithms in the criminal justice system. Her journey epitomized what Inspirit AI is all about: fostering curiosity, building confidence, and empowering the next generation of changemakers.

Inspirit AI is more than just a bootcamp; it’s a transformative experience. Whether through the AI Scholars program or the 1:1 research mentorship, students gain practical skills, explore ethical dimensions, and walk away with projects they can proudly showcase. More than that, they learn to think critically about the intersection of technology and society, preparing them to be thoughtful innovators in an AI-driven world.

The Future of AI and Advice for Aspiring AI Scholars

The future of AI excites me because it’s not just about cutting-edge algorithms or technological marvels; it’s about how these tools can enhance lives. From personalized education platforms to advanced healthcare diagnostics, AI has the power to address systemic challenges. But with this power comes responsibility. As we move forward, ethical considerations, like bias mitigation and equitable access, must remain at the forefront.

For high school students dreaming of careers in AI, engineering, or beyond, my advice is simple: stay curious and build a strong foundation. Start with the basics but don’t stop there. Pursue projects that excite you, whether it’s creating an app or designing a research experiment. And most importantly, find mentors who inspire and challenge you. Programs like Inspirit AI can be a fantastic launchpad, offering personalized instruction, collaborative learning, and access to cutting-edge tools.

Looking Back, Looking Ahead

My journey has been shaped by curiosity, community, and a deep desire to make a difference. Teaching at Inspirit AI has reminded me of the joy of learning and the power of mentorship. As I look to the future, I’m excited to see how the next generation will use AI not just to solve problems but to reimagine possibilities. Thank you for reading about my journey.

To every aspiring engineer, data scientist, or AI enthusiast out there: the world needs your perspective. Dive in, ask big questions, and don’t be afraid to build your own path.