I started when I was seven-years-old, and I've been playing ever since! One of my proudest moments was passing the Grade 8 Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) exam, the highest level for the violin certificate! The test only comes once per year, so there was a lot of pressure going into each exam, despite preparing for months. One unique experience through my violin journey was when I was in Disneyland with my middle school's Advanced Orchestra for a national competition. However, my Grade 6 ABRSM exam date was immediately after our performance, so my father had to fly to LA to pick me up and we flew back to the Bay while my orchestra-mates were enjoying their time on the roller coasters. The good news, though, was that I passed (as you can see in the photos😃)!

I started chess when I was around six-years-old, and first joined my elementary school team in the first grade. As my chess skills grew rapidly, my coach named me as one of our schools captains! Some notable achievements include defeating a grandmaster in seven moves, placing 25th in the nation, and placing 4th in states (with several 1st places in smaller, regional tournaments). 

After my competitive chess career came to an end, I was drawn back to the chess world as a chess coach/TA for my old elementary school's chess club. I eventually became a paid volunteer; however, my main focus is still aimed towards guiding the younger generation to develop chess strategies, tips, and tricks, along with building the social aspect of the chess world through collaboration with others.