Hi, I’m Paloma

I’m an Applied Math (Computational Modeling) & Cognitive Science student at UC Berkeley combining AI research (ICRA 2025) with large-scale operational leadership ($700k budget management). Founder of a community-focused cooking school with a track record of driving impact through technical innovation, user-centric design, and cross-functional leadership.

Coursework: Multivariable Calculus, Abstract Linear Algebra, Data Structures, Discrete Math, Numerical Analysis, Computational Modeling, Computational Structures, Neuroscience.

Product & Research Experience

CO-FOUNDER CEO & CFO

GF Chefs Cooking School

Since 2020, my partner and I have taught over 600 students ages 5-17 how to cook gluten-free recipes in their own kitchens with our online school gfchefs.com. We raised $7,177 for Celiac Community Fdtn, San Carlos Ed Fdtn & UCSF Children’s Hospital, and received positive press.

UNDERGRAD RESEARCHER

Blox-Net: Generative AI and Minimalist Sculpture

Prompt engineering and hyperparameter tuning improved the fidelity of the Vision Language Model (VLM) in translating text to 3D sculptures. Our paper won the ICRA 2025 Student Research Award.

STUDENT ADVISOR & INTERN

My Digital Tat2

I led research on Social Media & Mental Health. To reach the community, I produced podcasts and delivered presentations to students, parents, and educators

Leadership & Operations

VP PANHELLENIC

Cal Delta Gamma

I help manage a $700,000 annual budget for 165 members, optimizing spend across DEI initiatives, sustainability efforts, and programming. I also oversee a team of 5 directors; coordinate with Panhellenic delegates and executives to align chapter goals with campus-wide standards.

ART DIRECTOR & AGE GROUPS DIRECTOR

Lair of the Bear

I managed daily programming & logistics for 3,000+ campers over 10 weeks. This included leading a team of staff to deliver creative curriculum (pottery, crafts) while maintaining high safety and engagement.

Award: Recognized as “Best Overall Staffer” (Schmitz Scholarship) out of 150+ employees.

CAPTAIN, WOMEN’S VARSITY ROWING TEAM

Norcal Crew

I was elected captain for 3 consecutive years by consensus of coaches and teammates, and led the team to Youth Nationals through rigorous training and conflict resolution.

PUBLICATIONS, SPEAKING & INTERESTS

AUTHOR & PUBLIC SPEAKER

Sharing The Luck

I wrote and published Sharing The Luck, a 103 page book that tells the stories and shows my photos of children I met as our family traveled through 25 countries around the world. I wanted to help kids back at home learn about how kids are similar and different around the world.

Winner of the TeenInk “People’s Choice” Award and 5.0 stars on Amazon. I managed the end-to-end lifecycle from ideation and illustration to publishing and public speaking.

RESEARCHER

ADHD Underdiagnosis in Females

ADHD is not a gender-specific disorder—however, American men are 69% more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than American women. My research paper presents leading factors in the significant underdiagnosis of ADHD in females and demonstrates how art, narrative and public education can assist in ameliorating this underdiagnosis.