Welcome to Darshan Inspires Tech!

Empowering Teens Through Chess, Robotics, and Innovation

Join me on my journey as I explore the fascinating worlds of chess, robotics, and nano-science. Let's embark on this exciting adventure together and unlock the potential of innovation and education!

About

ABOUT ME

Darshan Gokulraj

Chess Enthusiast, Mentor & Innovator

Hi there! I'm Darshan Gokulraj, a high school student from Malvern, PA, with a passion for chess, robotics, and nanoscience. As a chess enthusiast, I've led my team to victory in numerous tournaments and continuously strive to master the game. My love for robotics has driven me to participate in various competitions and research projects, focusing on the practical applications of nano-science in robotics.

I’m passionate about mentoring and inspiring others. I believe education and technology can transform lives. Through this site, I share my experiences and knowledge to help others achieve their goals.

MY RESEARCH

I'm passionate about exploring how nanoscience can enhance robotic technologies. By using nanoscale materials, we can create more efficient, precise, and versatile robots. My research focuses on integrating nanotechnology to improve robotic systems and develop innovative solutions for various tasks. Join me as I share insights and updates on my journey to advance robotics through nano-science!

Link to my Paper Presentation

LEADERSHIP & ACTIVITIES

Boy Scouts of America

I have been an active member of Troop 76 for seven years. Throughout my time in Boy Scouts, I have held many leadership roles, such as Den Chief, Assistant Patrol leader, Scribe, and Order of the Arrow representative. I have even been inducted into the Boy Scout's honors society, formally called the Order of the Arrow. In the order, I currently hold the rank of brotherhood.

Chess

I have been playing chess for 12 years and have been playing competitively for three years now. I am the president of Great Valley High School's Chess club and the current reigning champion of the Pennsylvania Scholastic Esports League for chess. Currently, I have a 2054 rapid rating on chess.com.

Robotics

I have been a member of a vex robotics team for about 6 years now and have competed in states for 5/6 years. This past season, we made it to eliminations allowing us to possibly qualify for the prestigious opportunity to compete at worlds.

Basketball

I have been a Great Valley High School Basketball team member for two years. In my first year on the team, I managed the team by setting up practices, participating in practices, and keeping scoring and shots taken during games. As a starter on junior varsity this past season, I was #2 in Blocks, #3 in rebounds, and 51% from the field.

Marching Band

I was a member of the Great Valley Marching Band for two years, during which time I played the trombone. During my time with the marching band, we won states in 2022 and placed in states in 2021. During our state performance, I was featured in a solo post on USBands' Instagram.

My Projects

Eagle Scout Project

I spent 249.5 hours planning and executing my project at Stetson Middle School.
Installed five wooden posts, each 12 feet tall, and a sail shade that covers the entire garden.
Paved the garden entrance using stone pavers.
Cleaned, mulched, and planted new plants in the garden.
Led 17 people in this endeavor and learned the importance of leadership in a team setting.

CJA Chess project

Collaborated with Joshua Anderson to fix a CJA chess website, specifically the links and images.
These links are on the official USChess website and other major chess organization websites.

Video game design

Conceptualized and created a visually appealing video game with exciting levels and mechanics.
Coded collisions and learned how to use stack overflow effectively.
Enhanced my knowledge of the basics of game creation and how to create a game using Eclipse.

Pure Chess tournament

Working with a volunteer organization back in 2021, I managed and helped run a chess tournament.
This tournament helped raise 1000 dollars for the organization.

Honors and Awards

Eagle Scout

On my journey to earning Eagle, I participated in National Youth Leadership Training, Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops, Received Presidential service awards (two bronze, one silver), Got on the Cover of Boys Life Maganize for the annual 50-mile bike ride and have led my troop in its endeavors as an active leader

PSEL Chess Champion

This past May, I led the Chess club to win the Pennsylvania Scholastic Esports League with an undefeated record of 12-0 and a personal record of (36-0). As Vice-president (now President) at the time I helped organize my teammates and helped them practice to be able to accomplish such a feat at the state level.

Philadelphia Open placement

Placed 6th place at the Philadelphia Open for Chess and won $400. I placed 6th out of the 400 people who were participating in the event with a score of 3-1-1. Many well-known players, such as Grandmaster Hans Neiman, attended this event.

Pennsylvania State Robotics

This year, my robotics team made it to the round of 16 at states, meaning we were in the best 16 out of all the teams in eastern Pennsylvania. We qualified for the eliminations by going 5-1-2 in the qualifiers. I Qualified and made States as a Freshman as well.

Academic scholar

I am an AP Scholar member of the National Honor Society, a National Spanish Honors Society member, and a Distinguished Honor Roll and honor roll throughout high school.

SKILLS & INTERESTS

Basketball

I am a member of the Great Valley Boys Basketball team and have been playing the sport since 9th grade. You can view my account here: https://www.hudl.com/profile/21203033/darshan-gokulraj

Chess

I have been playing chess since the age of four and have been playing competitively for about five years. you can view my chess.com account here : https://www.chess.com/member/gm_dolphin