< Mercy >

Igniting minds, one byte at a time:
Harnessing AI, ML, and the cloud
to redefine the future of education.

About Me

Hi! I'm Mercy Omwoyo a Computer Science graduate student passionate about blending technology and education to unlock new possibilities in learning. My fascination lies in understanding systems ranging from algorithms to user behaviors.

Software Engineering

Building systems and elegant solutions through distributed systems and machine learning algorithms.

Design

Crafting intuitive user experiences and transforming complex technical problems into accessible solutions.

Research

Exploring educational technologies and investigating ways to make digital experiences more inclusive and effective.

From designing intuitive user interfaces to implementing robust backend systems, I thrive at the intersection of creativity and engineering. Through research and practical projects, I've worked to make computer science education more engaging and accessible, especially for underrepresented groups. My goal is to bridge the gap between theoretical innovation and practical solutions that make a tangible impact in classrooms and beyond.

Mission Statement: to use the power of technology to democratize education and inspire the next generation of learners and creators.

Beyond Code

Coastal Kenya

Kenyan Roots

Growing up in Kenya shaped my perspective on technology's role in bridging cultural and educational gaps. From sailing along the pristine coastal beaches to seeing wildlife in national parks, these experiences fuel my creative approach to problem-solving.

Hiking Trails

Adventure Seeker

As a former member of the President's Award Club in Kenya (part of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award), I developed a passion for exploration through challenging expeditions. Today, I continue this adventure by hiking mountainous trails with friends.

STEAM Events

Creative Expression

When I'm not coding, you'll find me engaging with STEAM pop-up events, sharing my passion for technology with others, or unwinding with my guitar. These creative outlets complement my technical work and keep me inspired.

fun_facts.sh
$ cat life_adventures.md
  • 🏆 Led expeditions in the President's Award Club, Kenya
  • 🌊 Adventured along the East African coastline, trying sailing and coastal activities
  • 🎸 Self-taught guitarist
  • 🏞️ Avid hiker in mountainous regions
  • 🦁 Wildlife enthusiast and safari explorer
  • 🔬 Active participant in STEAM community events

Technical Skills

Python JavaScript/React Machine Learning Distributed Systems

Design Skills

UX/UI Design User Research Prototyping Design Systems

Research Areas

Educational Tech HCI ML Applications Accessibility

Education

masters_degree.sh

Master of Science in Computer Science

Northwestern University

2024 - 2025
$ cat program_details.md
  • Advanced Computer Science curriculum
  • Focus on AI and Machine Learning
  • Research in Educational Technology
bachelors_degree.sh

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Northwestern University

2021 - 2024
$ cat program_details.md
  • Computer Science major with Design Certificate
  • Interdisciplinary approach combining technology and design
  • Focus on Human-Computer Interaction and UX Design
Computer Science Design Certificate HCI

Future Ambitions

future_vision.sh

Research Vision

$ cat research_interests.md
  • Developing adaptive learning platforms powered by machine learning
  • Creating personalized education systems that scale across cultures
  • Integrating constructionist principles with analytics
  • Building culturally responsive computing curricula

Innovation Goals

$ cat innovation_roadmap.md
  • Design immersive learning environments that adapt to individual needs
  • Develop technologies that transform abstract concepts into tangible experiences
  • Create platforms that make programming accessible through creative expression
  • Build tools that democratize access to quality computer science education
🎯

Education Impact

Transforming CS education through adaptive learning platforms

🌏

Global Reach

Scaling personalized learning across cultural contexts

🔬

Research Focus

Advancing the intersection of technology and education

Experience

student_researcher.sh

Student Researcher

TIDAL Lab, Northwestern University

Jan 2024 - Present

$ cat responsibilities.md

  • Designing and evaluating innovative educational technologies
  • Developing coding platforms and interactive installations
  • Conducting user research and impact analysis

$ ls tech-stack/

Python React Research Data Analysis
cs_tutor.sh

Computer Science Tutor

Juni Learning

May 2023 - Present

$ cat teaching.md

  • One-on-one tutoring in computer science
  • Teaching Python, Java, and web development
  • Creating personalized learning plans

$ ls skills/

Teaching Python Java Web Dev
content_dev.sh

Content Developer

Northwestern University

Feb 2024 - Jul 2024

$ cat projects.md

  • Developing STEAM curricula and programs
  • Creating interactive TunePad activities
  • Designing educator training programs

$ ls technologies/

Ed Tech STEAM TunePad Training

Featured Projects

Full Stack
Live

Study Buddy Finder

Northwestern University study group matching platform with intelligent course matching and scheduling

500+ Active Users
Smart Scheduling
Real-time Chat
React Firebase Node.js Tailwind
Full Stack
In Development

ThriftNU

Marketplace platform for Northwestern University community to buy and sell used course materials and items

Secure Marketplace
Direct Exchange
Verified Users
React Firebase Material-UI Node.js
Product Design

LinkedIn AI Editor Assistant

AI-powered content safety tool prototype for LinkedIn's 900M+ users, enhancing creator content quality

136+ User Studies
54 Concept Tests
40% Fortune 500 Impact
Figma User Research Prototyping
Industrial Design

Ostrich Pillow Redesign

3-in-1 travel comfort solution with innovative volume reduction design

40% Volume Reduction
15 User Studies
5 Prototypes
Computer Vision Art

Face Tracking Masks

Interactive face masks using computer vision and generative art

Real-time Tracking
Voronoi Art
Particle Effects
P5.js TensorFlow WebGL
Gesture Recognition Art

Hand Gesture Sound Installation

Interactive sound experience powered by hand gesture recognition and cultural symbolism

Gesture Detection
Sound Synthesis
Emoji Integration
TensorFlow.js Web Audio API Machine Learning
Education Research

D65 Research Initiative

Research project focused on improving educational outcomes through technology integration and curriculum development

EdTech Integration
Learning Analytics
Student Impact
Research Methods Data Analysis EdTech
Curriculum Development

DYN TunePad Curriculum

Innovative STEAM curricula and programs for Chicago youth using the TunePad platform

Music Technology
Creative Coding
STEAM Education
TunePad Curriculum Design Educational Technology

Have a Question

Or just want to discuss a project? Connect with me using any of the following options