Hello! My name is Sanvi Venkayala, and I am currently a junior at the Massachusetts Academy of Math and Science. My sending school is the Advanced Math and Science Academy. I have a dog named Oreo, who is a Cavapoo. I enjoy spending time with my dog and playing with him. In my free time, I like to read books, bake, and listen to music. I’m interested in robotics and engineering, and I’ve participated in FIRST robotics since 6th grade. I love volunteering, and I am a director of a non-profit, Iridium Tutoring, which connects students with tutors. We also hold coding events in libraries where kids can learn basic coding skills and program robots.
I have been doing Bharatanatyam, an Indian classical dance form, since I was five years old. It has played a big part in connecting me to my culture, and through dance, I have learned many Hindu mythologies and traditions. I completed my arangetram, a dancer’s debut performance, in the summer of 2024 with my sister. We performed many dances on stage with live music. Dance has become part of who I am, and I continue to learn more each class. I have been learning this art form under the guidance of the Lasya School of Dance.
I love spending time with my 4-year-old dog, Oreo. Considering his name is Oreo, it’s obvious that he’s black and white. I’ve taught him lots of tricks, including high five, roll over, and tiptoe. Spending time with him is always a pick-me-up, and it’s also fun to take him on walks when it’s nice outside.
I have been doing FIRST robotics for a long time, and it's been such a valuable experience. It has connected me with many people, some of whom have become my best friends. I participated in FLL for 4 years before coaching my own FLL team and transitioning to FTC at my sending school. Now, I am part of the FRC 190 Team. Through robotics, I’ve learned how to be cooperative and how to build robots and program them!
I am a director of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Iridium Tutoring. We connect students to tutors and hold coding events at libraries. It’s been about 2 years since I’ve had this position, and we’ve taught kids to code at around 6-7 libraries. I love working with the kids and helping them explore new topics and techniques. I’m glad to be part of this organization that allows kids to gain access to education/tutors for free through an easy process. I’ve also learned a lot about budgeting and grant proposals while being a director.