About Me
I am a 3rd-year undergraduate computer science student at Grand Valley State University. I am passionate about learning, applying new technologies, and solving complex problems. My academic and professional journey has taken me across the United States and internationally, including an enriching study abroad experience and internship in Spain.
In addition to my studies as a computer science student at Grand Valley State University, I also work part-time as an undergraduate researcher in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and evolutionary computation (EC) research. My current research involves improving evolutionary algorithms through innovative computational techniques.
Education
Grand Valley State University
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Science, Minors in Mathematics and Cybersecurity (expected May 2026)
Allendale, Michigan, United States
GPA: 3.9/4.0
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid
Study Abroad Program (September 2024 – December 2024)
Madrid, Spain
Projects
- 1. Identifying Evolvability-Enhancing Mutations via Computational Models
October 2024 – Present (expected: April 2025)
I am researching how certain mutations improve evolvability using NK landscapes. Under the guidance of Dr. Austin Ferguson, I will design computational experiments to analyze fitness data and test evolvability metrics in simulated landscapes. This project leverages high-performance computing to scale simulations and explore long-term evolutionary dynamics. - 2. Automatic Atrium Segmentation
September 2024 – Present (expected: December 2024)
As part of my study abroad program at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, I am developing a machine learning model for 3D atrium segmentation in cardiology. My role involves preprocessing 3D medical imaging data, creating data pipelines, and optimizing mesh alignment using neural networks. - 3. Exploiting Phylogenetic Analysis to Improve Evolutionary Search Algorithms
September 2023 – July 2024
I worked with Dr. Alexander Lalejini on using phylogenetic analysis to improve evolutionary search algorithms. My responsibilities included designing and running experiments on a high-performance computing cluster and developing novel subsampling methods for optimization problems. This work resulted in a peer-reviewed paper, which I presented at the 2024 Genetic and Evolutionary Computation Conference (GECCO). - 4. Procedurally-generated 2D Role-playing Game
January 2024 – April 2024
As part of a software engineering course, I worked with a team to create a procedurally-generated 2D role-playing game. My contributions included designing game mechanics, implementing procedural content generation, and integrating core game features. - 5. Meteorological Software Application
May 2023 – November 2023
During an internship at Parque Náutico de Castrelo in Spain, I developed a Python-based application to automate weather database creation and real-time data visualization. The project improved sensor data processing speeds by over 200,000% and supported environmental efforts like erosion management. I collaborated with a cross-cultural team and worked with multilingual datasets. - 6. Spot Micro Agile Robot Dog Project
October 2021 – May 2022
I built a fully-operational robot inspired by the Boston Dynamics Spot agile mobile robot. Partnering with another student, I developed Python-based software that allows for remote control via Bluetooth. The robot uses a Raspberry Pi, 3D-printed components, servo motors, ultrasonic sensors, and an LCD display. We extensively tested and debugged the robot to ensure its functionality across various environments. I also published project documentation and contributed open-source code. (See website: Spot Micro Agile Robot Dog Project)
Featured Articles
- 1. Student Spotlight: Marcos Sanson
In December 2024, I was interviewed and highlighted by the GVSU College of Computing. This article discusses my journey, including my robotic dog project, study abroad experiences, and contributions to research. (Student Spotlight: Marcos Sanson) - 2. GV Computing Club Focuses on Networking & Growing Careers
In March 2024, I was interviewed and featured in an article highlighting my involvement in the Grand Valley Computing Club, where I focus on networking and advancing career opportunities. (GV Computing Club Focuses on Networking & Growing Careers)