About Me

Background

I'm a third-year Mechanical Engineering student at the University of Colorado Boulder, with interests extending well beyond the classroom. I've always enjoyed understanding how things work and finding ways to improve them, particularly through hands-on experimentation. My favorite part of engineering is the process of working with problems that don’t have immediately obvious solutions, where testing ideas and learning from mistakes are just as important as the final product. I'm particularly interested in mechanical design, precision systems, and opportunities to engineer solutions to both technical and creative projects.

Astrophotography & Filmmaking

Much of my interest in engineering has developed alongside my passion for photography and filmmaking. What started as an interest in capturing images has led me toward a deeper understanding of the mechanical, electrical, and optical systems behind the equipment itself. I've spent a considerable amount of time modifying, repairing, and experimenting with cameras, lenses, and astrophotography equipment, often learning new skills as problems arise.

I particularly enjoy the overlap between the creative and technical sides of camera work. Whether I'm working on a mechanical adjustment or planning a shot, I enjoy the process of figuring out how to achieve the right result with the equipment and resources I have available.

Piano

Piano has been a significant part of most of my life, and it's an interest I've pursued seriously alongside my technical work. I particularly enjoy the combination of precision, creativity, and interpretation involved in learning and performing challenging pieces.

Much of the repertoire I’ve worked on has been centered around romantic-era composers. Some more notable pieces I’ve learned are Rachmaninoff’s second piano sonata, many of Chopin’s etudes and ballades, and a few of Liszt’s etudes. I’ve also recently explored Kapustin’s concert etudes, which create a lovely combination of classical composition and technique alongside modern jazz harmonies. The contrast between these composers is part of what keeps piano interesting to me, with each piece offering a different approach to technique, expression, and interpretation.

Hiking & Climbing

Hiking and climbing have become some of my favorite ways to spend my free time. I particularly enjoy exploring places I’m unfamiliar with- from short, technical climbs to longer and more demanding hikes all around the United States.

Much of my filmmaking takes place on these outings, which introduces an additional set of challenges beyond the hike itself. Bringing a camera adds significant weight to my bag, and finding interesting compositions while moving through unfamiliar or exposed terrain often requires making creative decisions quickly, without compromising safety or the objectives of the climb. I enjoy that added challenge, as well as the opportunity to document places and experiences that would be difficult to capture otherwise.