alai.

About.

I’m interested in software engineering, research, and the economics of technology.

B.S. Computer Science + Economics

Explore selected work

I’m drawn to how technology affects people and to modeling human intelligence. I value careful investigation and clear communication in the software I build.

Tools I work with

  • Python
  • JavaScript / TypeScript
  • Java
  • SQL
  • React / Next.js
  • PyTorch

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Expected May 2029

Selected work

OdysseyInteractive storytelling Python, TypeScript, NVIDIA NIM, DeepSeekAn AI-guided, Dungeons & Dragons-style campaign platform with four original worlds.Project details

Built an LLM-driven dungeon master for persistent campaigns across four settings. Tested model quality, consistency, and latency to compare storytelling trade-offs.

GundHere!Product search Python, SQLite FTS5, BM25A Gunpla search engine that compares retailer prices and availability across a catalog of 1,146 kits.Project details

Built robots-aware ingestion and a modular pipeline for parsing, entity resolution, filtering, and indexing. Added typo-tolerant queries with a fuzzy reranker.

JumpBallSimulation & decision-making TypeScript, Vite, Web WorkersTurns everyday choices into simulated sports matches and strategy games—the winner decides.Project details

Built stat-driven engines for four sports, speed chess, a hex-map 4X game, and a simulated trading market. Used Monte Carlo simulations to tune balance and estimate win probabilities, moving estimates into a Web Worker to keep the interface responsive.

LaiCoinSystems exploration GoA toy peer-to-peer blockchain.

Research experience

University of Southern California

May 2024 — Jun 2026

Assistant Researcher · Division of Biostatistics

Synthesized deep-learning research for an undergraduate machine-learning curriculum. Analyzed Llama 3, developed process flowcharts and interactive Colab demos, and presented weekly findings.

UCSC · Storm Lab

Summer 2025

Psychology Research Intern · Science Internship Program

Investigated social-media exposure and false-memory formation. Led a pilot recall study with university students and presented findings at the program symposium.

Beyond the coursework

Building-U

R&D and Marketing Intern · Aug — Dec 2024

Researched educational opportunities and used Google Ads analytics to identify in-demand resources, collaborating cross-functionally with the research and marketing teams to drive engagement.

Interact District 5170

District Representative · Aug 2023 — Jun 2026

Coordinated community-service and fundraising efforts with Rotary International and secured partnerships with local organizations.

Faces Consulting

GTM & Product Consultant · Sep 2026 - Now