Ali Sao
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First Blog!

9/20/2025

First Blog Post 🚀

I finally decided to start this blog. Now that I’m no longer at Panasonic, I wanted a place to just write out my thoughts, explain what I’m working on, and track where I’m headed. Feels like the right time to start documenting things, especially with so much going on.


Life update

I’m heading into my junior year as a Computer Engineering student, and I’m souper excited (yes, souper). I’ve been grinding nonstop, and this semester I’m taking on a heavier load — 20 units. It sounds like a lot (and it is), but I’m hyped for these classes because they’re more software-heavy.

For example, I’m finally taking a formal Data Structures & Algorithms course (EECS 40). Even though I’ve already been deep in LeetCode, it’ll be nice to see how the class approaches it and fill in any gaps.


Keeping my hardware side alive 🔧

Even though I’m doing more software lately, I don’t want to let go of my hardware roots. I’ve been thinking about getting involved with another official design project on the side.

One group that really stood out to me is Nominal. They’re working on streamlining hardware testing using software tools. That mix of embedded + infrastructure feels exactly like where I want to be long term. It’s something I definitely want to bring into whatever company or team I end up at.


Looking ahead 🎯

I’m starting to prep for software engineering internships and plan to apply as positions open up. I’m especially looking at smaller companies where I can get more hands-on impact, but I’m open to whatever gets me closer to where I want to be — building systems that actually matter.

For now, this blog will be my spot to:

  • Reflect on what I’m learning.
  • Break down projects I’m working on.
  • Document both the wins and the struggles.

This is just the beginning, but it feels good to have a place to write things out. Here’s to the start of my blogging journey 🙌.