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Jessna Brar
URAD Scholar, Computer Science and Economics at Dartmouth College, SAAC Member, Research Assistant at Dartmouth Reality and Robotics Lab, Student-Athlete, Caravel Foundation Scholar
Professional Background
Jessna Brar is currently making significant strides as a sophomore at Dartmouth College, where she is majoring in Computer Science and Economics. Her academic journey is marked by outstanding achievements and a commitment to harnessing technology for practical problem-solving. At Dartmouth, Jessna holds a crucial role as a research assistant at the esteemed Dartmouth Reality and Robotics Lab.
In her position, she immerses herself in cutting-edge research focused on autonomous surface vehicles (ASVs) that are equipped with advanced technologies such as LiDAR and camera systems, aimed at improving obstacle detection in aquatic environments. This work is highly significant, as current navigation systems developed for terrestrial self-driving vehicles do not effectively transfer to the complexities of lakes and rivers. The lab’s research is vital as it targets the challenges posed by unstructured environments and various obstacle types that ASVs encounter.
Jessna contributes to creating realistic simulations and real datasets necessary for training and validating obstacle detection algorithms. Her innovative approach reduces the reliance on extensive simulations while ensuring robust training processes, enhancing the safety and efficiency of ASV navigation in the wild.
Education and Achievements
Jessna’s academic foundation is strong, with a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science and Economics in progress at Dartmouth College, a prestigious institution renowned for its focus on liberal arts and strong post-graduate outcomes. Prior to her college education, Jessna distinguished herself academically, scoring 89% in her Grade 12 CBSE Board Exams at Delhi Public School in India, where she excelled in subjects including Computer Science, Physics, and Chemistry. Her academic brilliance was evident early on, as she achieved an impressive 97% in her Grade 10 ICSE Board Exams from St. Mary's Academy, showcasing her proficiency across a diverse curriculum that included subjects such as Mathematics, Science, and Languages.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Jessna has garnered hands-on experience that complements her theoretical knowledge. Her coding skills are noteworthy; she has spent two years coding with SQL and Python, four years with Java, and has a foundational understanding of HTML. As part of her coursework, she has also delved into R programming, enabling her to analyze hydrological data and investigate crucial information regarding crop and water availability amid significant drought conditions affecting the southwestern United States.
Notable Experiences in Research and Leadership
Before her current role at the Dartmouth Reality and Robotics Lab, Jessna gained valuable experience as a research intern at Rapture Biotech International Pvt Ltd, where she developed critical research skills. Furthermore, she was a research assistant at Panjab University in Chandigarh, further solidifying her commitment to academic inquiry and innovation. Alongside her rich research experience, Jessna’s engagement with the Dartmouth Athletics Marketing Team and her role as a front desk staff member at Dartmouth Outdoor Rentals reflects her well-rounded involvement on campus.
Extracurricular Involvement and Athletics
Outside of academics and research, Jessna is actively involved in athletics as a coxswain for the varsity men's heavyweight rowing team at Dartmouth, which competes in a Division I Rowing Program currently ranked third in the nation. Her role as a coxswain is crucial, as it requires effective leadership, strategic thinking, and teamwork. Jessna also represents her team on the Student Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC), where she works with fellow athletes to ensure their voices are heard and to promote the student-athlete experience at Dartmouth.
Jessna Brar exemplifies a well-rounded individual who is dedicated to academic excellence, innovative research, and athletic prowess. Her combination of computer science and economics studies, along with her applied research work and athletic leadership, positions her favorably for a bright future in technology and beyond. As she continues her studies at Dartmouth, there is no doubt that Jessna will make impactful contributions to her fields of interest and inspire others along the way.