Hello! I’m Aarav Sharma, a Senior at Archbishop Mitty High School in San Jose, CA. I am an Entrepreneur, Computational Genomics Researcher, Author, and Autism Advocate. I am committed to revolutionizing the lives of special needs individuals using my coding and business skills. That’s why I want to study Computer Science and Business at my future university I founded The Coder Squad, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that teaches STEM subjects to over 250 special needs individuals. Additionally, I am a founder and coach of a Summer Badminton Camp for 60+ special needs individuals, where I mentor volunteers and provide therapy kits. As the Founder and CEO of Allyhq.ai(Delaware C Corp), I created a social networking platform for families with special needs individuals, attracting 80-100k monthly visitors, and I host the Spectrum Stories podcast to share insights from change-makers in the neurodiverse community.

My research experience includes internships at Stanford Snyder Lab, Fox Chase Cancer Center and San Francisco State university, focusing on AI applications in healthcare, and I’ve been recognized with multiple awards, including the 2023 STEM Award and the 2024 Volunteer of the Year Award (given to 1/2400 volunteers) from non profit organization, Friends of Children with Special Needs. As the author of my book, Beyond the Spectrum, Exploring the Unseen world of Autism, I advocate for inclusivity and understanding of autistic individuals. I am proficient in various programming languages and machine learning, and I also compete as a Varsity Badminton player. I am committed to creating opportunities and fostering equality for all, believing that "Inclusion leads to Innovation!

Entrepreneurship

A Beacon of Innovation and Advocacy

Aarav Sharma is a remarkable high school senior whose dedication to advancing technology and supporting special needs communities has positioned him as a young leader in both fields. His multifaceted contributions span across AI research, entrepreneurship, and community service, with a significant focus on autism advocacy and technological innovation. Aarav's journey is marked by his founding of AllyHq.ai, a platform that unites families of special needs individuals, offering them resources and a sense of community, and TheCoderSquad, which provides coding education to underrepresented communities. His pioneering work in AI-driven genetics research and social entrepreneurship showcases his unwavering commitment to creating meaningful, lasting impact in both science and society.

PODCASTER

Join Aarav, CEO of Ally, on SpectrumStories, our dedicated podcast series on YouTube. Dive into engaging and insightful conversations with leading autism experts, advocates, and individuals sharing their unique experiences. Each episode aims to deepen your understanding of autism, offering valuable insights, practical advice, and heartfelt stories. Whether you're part of the autism community or simply interested in learning more, tune in to SpectrumStories and be part of a growing, supportive network. Stay informed, stay inspired, and connect with us for new episodes regularly. Subscribe now and never miss an episode as we continue to explore the many facets of autism and the remarkable people driving change. Together, we can foster a world of understanding, inclusion, and hope.

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AI Startup

AllyHQ, founded by Aarav Sharma, is transforming support for families with special needs children. This pioneering platform offers specialized resources, communication tools, and community support tailored to each family's unique journey. With a focus on inclusivity and empowerment, AllyHQ bridges the gap between families and essential support, fostering a nurturing environment for all. Our mission is to equip families with the tools and confidence to overcome challenges, celebrate successes, and build a brighter future. Join AllyHQ and become part of a community that truly understands and supports your journey.

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Social Entrepreneur

Another significant aspect of Aarav’s work is TheCoderSquad Inc., a non-profit he founded to teach programming and mathematics to special needs children. TheCoderSquad is praised for its inclusive approach, ensuring access to quality STEM education for children of varying abilities. Aarav's initiative has impacted over 250 special needs children, equipping them with essential skills and nurturing their tech potential. TheCoderSquad’s innovative programs and inclusive environment have earned recognition, including the Presidential Volunteer Service Award, underscoring Aarav's dedication to bridging educational gaps and promoting inclusivity in tech education.

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Author

Beyond the Spectrum, Exploring The Unseen World Of Autism

Aarav is also the author of "Beyond the Spectrum: Exploring the Unseen World of Autism," a book offering valuable insights and strategies for managing the behavior of autistic children. Drawing from his extensive experience and research, Aarav's book serves as a practical guide for parents, educators, and caregivers. It delves into autism's complexities, providing evidence-based strategies and personal anecdotes that highlight the importance of understanding and supporting autistic individuals. Through this book, Aarav aims to foster a more inclusive society where autistic individuals are understood and supported.

Summer Programs

Aarav has participated in two prestigious summer programs—Berkeley Business Academy for Youth (BBAY) and COSMOS (California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science)—where he honed both his leadership and technical skills. At BBAY, Aarav served as the CEO of his team, guiding them through the creation and pitch of a business solution that earned 2nd place in the competition, showcasing his entrepreneurial mindset and strategic thinking. Through this program, he gained invaluable insights into business innovation, teamwork, and product development. At COSMOS, Aarav deepened his understanding of STEM by focusing on advanced topics at the intersection of Computer Science and Biology, working alongside like-minded peers and mentors. His experiences at COSMOS helped lay the foundation for his research in AI and genomics, further fueling his ambition to solve real-world challenges through technology.

Computational Epigenetic Research

Aarav Sharma has been conducting cutting-edge research at Stanford Snyder Lab and Fox Chase Center for the past three years, focusing on computational epigenetics. Aarav’s contributions to AI research are profound and impactful. He has developed algorithms for breast cancer diagnosis, eye-gaze estimation, and DNA methylation patterns related to autism. His research, published in reputable journals, adds significant knowledge to these areas. Aarav's AI projects, like the breast cancer diagnosis and eye-gaze estimation algorithms, have the potential to revolutionize healthcare and improve diagnostic accuracy. His dedication to using AI for social good reflects his vision of a future where technology enhances the quality of life for all individuals.

Research Published

Regional Science Fair

Aarav has been a consistent presence at the Regional Science Fair, participating three times and achieving notable success. His research projects, focused on computational genetics and their applications to neurodevelopmental disorders like Autism, have earned him 3rd place and several other awards. Aarav’s dedication to blending machine learning and biology allowed him to uncover novel insights into genetic biomarkers for Autism, showcasing his ability to tackle complex scientific challenges with precision and innovation. Beyond the accolades, Aarav's participation in these science fairs highlights his commitment to using technology for social good. His research has the potential to contribute to more accurate diagnoses and treatments for conditions like Autism, reinforcing his role not only as a researcher but also as a social entrepreneur and advocate for those with special needs.

Leadership and Community Service

Aarav’s leadership extends beyond his entrepreneurial ventures. As Vice President of the CS/AI Club at Archbishop Mitty High School, he leads machine learning workshops and manages club activities, fostering a collaborative learning environment. As the founder and coach of a summer badminton camp for Friends of Children with Special Needs, he demonstrates his commitment to community service and mentorship. Aarav also produces and hosts the Spectrum Stories Podcast, where he interviews changemakers impacting the lives of special needs children, showcasing his ability to lead and inspire others.