Dhruv Thakar

Dhruv Thakar

Welcome to My Portfolio

Hi, I'm Dhruv Thakar

Developer • Maker • Student

Learn More About Me
Dhruv Thakar Download My Resume

Fun Fact

I once built a robot that could solve a maze using only light sensors and Arduino!

About Me

A Computer Science student at Ontario Tech University with a strong foundation in computing and problem-solving.

I'm passionate about turning ideas into practical tech solutions — from writing clean, efficient code to building hardware-based projects with Arduino and circuitry.

Outside academics, I volunteer, compete in hackathons, and love sharing knowledge with others. Always learning, always building.

Skills

HTML CSS JavaScript Python Java C++ C Arduino Git GitHub VS Code Tailwind CSS

Languages

Java, C++, Python, C

Tools

VS Code, GitHub, Arduino

Education

Ontario Tech University Logo

Ontario Tech University

BSc. in Computer Science

Oshawa, Ontario, Canada

Expected Graduation: April 2028
First Year (2024 - 2025)

Topics & Skills Covered:

Developed a strong foundation in software development using Python and C++. Learned fundamental programming constructs, basic algorithms, and object-oriented principles. Gained core knowledge in calculus, classical physics, and technical writing. Enhanced problem-solving, debugging, and logical thinking abilities.

Fall Term:

  • CSCI 1060U – Programming Workshop I or CSCI 1062U – Accelerated Programming Workshop
  • CSCI 1030U – Introduction to Computer Science
  • MATH 1000U – Introductory Calculus or MATH 1010U – Calculus I
  • PHYS 1010U – Physics I or PHYS 1030U – Introductory Physics
  • COMM 1050U – Technical Communications

Winter Term:

  • CSCI 1061U – Programming Workshop II or CSCI 1063U – Programming Project
  • CSCI 2050U – Computer Architecture
  • MATH 1020U – Calculus II
  • PHYS 1020U – Physics II
  • BUSI 1600U – Management of the Enterprise

Projects: Built beginner-level console applications such as calculators and games, and completed hands-on labs including Arduino-based motion sensor experiments.

Second Year (2025 - 2026)

Advanced understanding of data structures, software design principles, statistics, and linear algebra. Explored discrete math, object-oriented programming, scientific computing, and software development lifecycles. Introduced to entrepreneurship and astronomy, building interdisciplinary perspective and collaboration skills.

Fall Term:

  • CSCI 2000U – Scientific Data Analysis
  • CSCI 2010U – Data Structures
  • CSCI 2110U – Discrete Mathematics for Computer Scientists
  • STAT 2010U – Statistics and Probability for Physical Science
  • ENVS 1000U – Environmental Science (Science Elective)
  • PHYS 2900U – Astronomy I

Winter Term:

  • CSCI 2020U – Software Systems Development and Integration
  • CSCI 2040U – Software Design and Analysis
  • CSCI 2072U – Computational Science I
  • MATH 2050U – Linear Algebra
  • PHYS 3900U – Astronomy II
  • BUSI 1700U – Intro to Entrepreneurship

Projects: Anticipated development of full-stack software tools, algorithm design challenges, scientific modeling projects, and entrepreneurial prototyping as part of electives.

My Goals

Short-Term Goals in Computer Science

  • Build and contribute to personal projects, especially in app and game development, to strengthen programming skills and apply classroom knowledge creatively.
  • Stay current with industry trends by following tech blogs, newsletters, and engaging with the dev community on LinkedIn and X (Twitter).
  • Seek internship roles for Fall 2025, Winter 2026, and Summer 2026 to gain hands-on experience in real-world development environments.
  • Expand technical knowledge through new tools, frameworks, and project-based learning.

Long-Term Goals in Computer Science

  • Become a leading researcher in a computer science subfield by contributing original research and advancing theoretical knowledge.
  • Pursue a Ph.D. or research degree for deep academic training and collaboration on high-impact projects.
  • Contribute to the field via publications, conferences, and innovation-focused industry partnerships.
  • Mentor and inspire future computer scientists through teaching, outreach, and academic involvement.

Volunteering

Ontario Tech University Logo

CSCI Outreach Volunteer

Ontario Tech University — Apr 2025 · 1 mo

Education

  • Represented the Faculty of Science at the information booth, answering questions and offering insights into student life.
  • Assisted in organizing and executing interactive CSCI sessions, including problem-solving and hands-on paper airplane activities.
  • Facilitated audience engagement by coordinating microphone sharing during a live Q&A panel.
  • Participated in the student panel, offering authentic experiences and helpful advice to potential students.
  • Contributed to both setup and teardown efforts to ensure smooth event flow.
Ontario Tech University Logo

CSCI Outreach Volunteer

Ontario Tech University — Oct 2024 · 1 mo

Education

  • Assisted at program-specific booths, providing helpful insights about student life and academic experience.
  • Participated in organizing and guiding Lab Demo Tours, ensuring smooth transitions between locations and clear communication of schedules.
  • Coordinated with faculty and staff to direct students to accurate resources and contacts.
  • Helped manage student sign-ups for demos and ensured attendees were on time and prepared.
  • Contributed to event setup, on-the-day logistics, and clean-up efforts.
  • Shared personal experiences to support student recruitment and engagement.
Ontario Tech University Logo

HackHive Participant

Ontario Tech University — Feb 2025 · 1 mo

Innovation & AI

  • Participated in the HackHive Hackathon, developing innovative solutions to advance precision agriculture using AI and drone technology.
  • Contributed to a team project focused on optimizing farm operations through smart analytics and real-time crop monitoring.
  • Developed a prototype drone system that analyzes soil health, water levels, pest detection, and autonomously applies treatments based on AI-driven insights.
Fletcher's Meadow Secondary School Logo

Panelist

Fletcher's Meadow Secondary School — May 2025 · 1 mo

Education & Mentorship

  • Invited as a panelist for the "Life After FMSS" event, speaking to Grade 11 and 12 students about transitioning from high school to post-secondary education and workforce.
  • Shared insights on course planning, study habits, academic stress management, financial planning, scholarships, and balancing commitments.
  • Strengthened public speaking, mentorship, and leadership skills while giving back to the community.

Clubs

Ontario Tech University Logo

OTU - Google Developer Group

Jun 2025 - Present · 2 mos

Active member participating in developer meetups, workshops, and collaborative projects promoting Google technologies.

Ontario Tech University Logo

Indian Student Association - External Affairs Executive

Mar 2025 - Present · 5 mos

Managing external communications and events to promote cultural awareness and engagement within the university community.

Hackathons & Competitions

Ontario Tech University Logo

HackHive 2025

Ontario Tech University — Feb 2025

Theme: AI & Precision Agriculture

  • Collaborated in a team to design a website prototype for an AI-powered drone system
  • Presented research findings through a clear, user-friendly website layout
  • Delivered a demo showcasing how technology can optimize farming operations

Successfully completed within 24 hours and presented to judges as a working prototype.

Projects

Common Algorithms Library

A Java library of classic array-based algorithms built for reusability and performance testing.

  • Sorting: Selection, Insertion, Bubble
  • Searching: Linear, Binary
  • Shuffling, Reversing, Merging
Java Algorithms Data Structures

iPhonePhone – Java OOP

Simulates an iPhone using Java classes showcasing encapsulation and method overriding.

  • App install/uninstall
  • Battery & flashlight control
  • Airplane mode simulation
Java OOP

Numeric Data GUI

Interactive GUI to perform math operations using Java Swing.

  • Prime & square detection
  • Factorial, sum, reverse digits
  • Trigonometric functions
Java Swing GUI

Personal Portfolio Website

Responsive personal portfolio built with HTML, Tailwind CSS, and JavaScript.

  • Showcases projects, skills, timeline, and contact info
  • Uses Tailwind CSS for styling
  • Responsive and interactive design
HTML CSS JavaScript

Calculator

A feature-rich calculator built with Bootstrap and JavaScript supporting trigonometric functions, square roots, and input history.

  • Clean Tailwind layout
  • Trigonometry & square root support
  • History tracking
  • Keyboard input support
JavaScript CSS

Contact Manager App

A CRUD-based web app that allows users to manage contact details—create, edit, delete, and search contacts.

  • Local storage or backend support
  • Responsive UI with form validation
  • Search and filter functionality
  • Clean and intuitive interface
HTML JavaScript

Skills

Web Development

  • HTML
  • CSS
  • Semantic Markup
  • External Styling
  • Responsive Design (Intermediate)
  • Accessibility
HTML & CSS Intermediate
Responsive Design Intermediate

Programming Languages

  • Java (Advanced)
  • Python (Advanced)
  • C++ (Intermediate)
  • C (Beginner)
  • Assembly (Beginner)

Electronics & Embedded Systems

  • Arduino
  • Embedded Systems
  • Circuit Design & Wiring
  • Digital Circuit Design
  • PCB Manufacturing
  • Breadboarding Techniques
  • Sensor Integration
  • Schematic Interpretation
  • LED Control
  • Electrical Troubleshooting
  • Power Management
  • Microcontroller Programming

Programming Concepts

  • Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
  • Encapsulation & Getters/Setters
  • Method Overriding
  • Recursion & Control Structures
  • Sorting & Searching Algorithms
  • Modular Programming
  • Data Structures & Strings
  • Algorithmic Thinking
  • Design Patterns
  • Defensive Programming

Software Development Practices

  • UI/UX Basics & Design
  • Java Swing / Event Driven Programming
  • Debugging & Exception Handling
  • Documentation & Code Comments
  • Iterative Testing & Optimization
  • Version Control (Git Workflow)
  • Agile Methodologies & Scrum
  • Secure Coding Practices

Collaboration & Soft Skills

  • Team Collaboration
  • Peer Research & Technical Discussions
  • Project Management
  • Townhall Facilitation
  • Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
  • Cross-Functional Teamwork
  • Time Management
  • Adaptability & Learning Agility

Tools & Technologies

  • Visual Studio Code
  • NetBeans
  • Replit
  • G-Suite (Docs, Slides, Sheets)
  • Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
  • LaTeX / Overleaf
  • Git & GitHub
  • Arduino

Languages & Communication

  • English (Fluent)
  • French (Intermediate)
  • Hindi (Fluent)
  • Gujarati (Fluent)
  • Punjabi (Conversational)
  • Technical Writing
  • Public Speaking & Presentations

Certifications

  • Google Logo
    Introduction to Generative AI Google — Issued Jun 2025 Skills: Generative AI Fundamentals · AI Models · Responsible AI Practices
  • HackerRank Logo
    Java (Basic) HackerRank — Issued Jul 2025 Show credential Skills: Java Classes and Objects · Data Structures · Inheritance · Exception Handling
  • HackerRank Logo
    Python (Basic) HackerRank — Issued Jul 2025 Show credential Skills: Scalar Types · Operators and Control Flow · Strings · Collections and Iteration · Modularity · Objects and Types · Classes
  • OneRoadmap Logo
    Full Stack Developer OneRoadmap — Issued Jul 2025 Verified at Aug 5, 2025, 11:13 PM Skills: JavaScript Fundamentals · Variables · Functions · Arrays · Objects · DOM Manipulation · Debugging Certificate ID: CERT-553E3048

Extracurriculars

  • Forage Logo
    Accenture Nordics - Software Engineering Job Simulation Forage — Aug 2025 Skills: Software Architecture · Git · Code Optimization · Agile & Scrum · Testing & QA · Security · Collaboration
    • Reviewed existing application code and identified areas for performance optimization
    • Collaborated on a software architecture plan to meet client requirements and scalability goals
    • Practiced agile methodologies and delivered recommendations in a professional client-facing format
  • Forage Logo
    Datacom - Software Development Job Simulation Forage — Aug 2025 Skills: Critical Thinking · Chrome DevTools · Root Cause Analysis · Software Development · Software Review · Written Communication
    • Reviewed a client-facing web application and planned for future improvements
    • Identified root causes of bugs and implemented fixes to improve functionality
    • Communicated findings in structured written reports for a technical audience
  • AWS Logo
    AWS APAC - Solutions Architecture Virtual Experience Program Forage — Aug 2025 Skills: AWS Elastic Beanstalk · Cloud Architecture · Cost Optimization · Client Communication · Scalability Planning
    • Designed a scalable hosting architecture using AWS Elastic Beanstalk for a high-growth client
    • Explained the proposed architecture in plain language to ensure client understanding
    • Outlined cost calculation methodology and demonstrated how monthly charges may vary

Courses

Programming Workshop I

Fall 2024

Introduced C++ fundamentals, control structures, and algorithmic logic.

  • C++ syntax & control flow
  • Basic algorithms
  • Debugging and IDE usage
Programming C++

Programming Workshop II

Winter 2025

Expanded C++ knowledge with modular design, recursion, and intermediate projects.

  • Modular functions and scope
  • Recursion and parameter use
  • Problem decomposition
Programming C++

Calculus I

Fall 2024

Covered limits, derivatives, and applications of differential calculus.

  • Limit laws
  • Differentiation techniques
  • Graphing and optimization
Math

Calculus II

Winter 2025

Explored integration techniques, series, and multivariable calculus basics.

  • Definite and improper integrals
  • Series and sequences
  • Partial derivatives
Math

Linear Algebra

Winter 2026

Matrix operations, vector spaces, eigenvalues, and linear transformations.

  • Row reduction & matrix inverse
  • Determinants and subspaces
  • Eigenvalues and diagonalization
Math

Discrete Mathematics

Fall 2025

Logic, set theory, combinatorics, graph theory, and proofs.

  • Logic & truth tables
  • Graph theory basics
  • Mathematical induction
Math

Stats & Probability for Scientists

Summer 2025

Probability theory, data distributions, and statistical inference for science students.

  • Probability & combinations
  • Normal distributions
  • Hypothesis testing
Math Science

Physics I

Fall 2024

Studied motion, forces, energy, and momentum through Newtonian mechanics.

  • Kinematics and vectors
  • Newton’s Laws
  • Energy conservation
Science

Physics II

Winter 2025

Covered electricity, magnetism, circuits, and electromagnetic waves.

  • Electrostatics & current
  • Magnetic fields
  • RC circuits and waves
Science

Environmental Science

Summer 2025

Studied ecosystems, sustainability, and environmental challenges.

  • Biomes and biodiversity
  • Pollution & climate
  • Conservation & policy
Science

Computer Architecture

Winter 2025

Explored CPU design, memory systems, and low-level assembly programming.

  • Instruction sets
  • Registers & memory
  • Assembly programming
Core

Technical Communication

Fall 2024

Practiced professional writing and presentations tailored to technical fields.

  • Report structure
  • Presentation design
  • Documentation skills
Soft Skills

Management of an Enterprise

Winter 2025

Learned business strategies, operations, and resource management basics.

  • Team leadership
  • Strategic planning
  • Resource allocation
Business

Intro to Computer Science

Fall 2024

Explored foundational CS concepts and built programs using Python.

  • Basic programming logic
  • Data types and conditionals
  • Intro to Python syntax
Core Python

My Journey

Built Police LED Flasher High School

Designed a dual 555 timer strobe circuit to simulate police lights. Learned basic electronics and prototyping.

GitHub

Sumo Bot Competition High School

Created an autonomous robot using Arduino and C++ for a sumo-style competition.

GitHub

Started BSc Computer Science @ Ontario Tech 2024

Began my undergraduate studies focused on programming fundamentals and software engineering.

Programming Workshop I Fall 2024

Learned C++ basics, control structures, arrays, loops, and recursion.

Intro to Computer Science Fall 2024

Explored foundational CS concepts and built programs using Python.

CSCI Outreach Volunteer - Fall Open House Oct 2024

Assisted prospective students, guided lab tours, and helped coordinate the open house event.

HackHive Hackathon Feb 2025

Collaborated with a team to prototype a tech solution under time constraints.

Computer Architecture Winter 2025

Studied instruction sets, CPU design, and low-level system implementation using assembly language.

Programming Workshop II Winter 2025

Expanded knowledge in C++ with modular design, functions, and intermediate-level projects.

CSCI Outreach Volunteer - Spring Open House Apr 2025

Presented CSCI demos, answered student questions, and supported event operations.

Learning HTML & CSS May 2025

Built static web pages and practiced responsive design using Tailwind CSS.

Portfolio Website Launch June 2025

Published my personal portfolio with projects, skills, and timeline using HTML, Tailwind, and JS.

GitHub

What I’m Doing / Learning Next

Learning React for building modern UIs

Learning Generative AI concepts and applications

Deepening knowledge about design platforms like Figma and Bootstrap

Currently building a Contact Manager App

Enhancing a feature-rich Calculator application

Technical Blog

💻 How I Built This Portfolio Website

Technologies: HTML, Tailwind CSS, JavaScript, Font Awesome, GitHub Pages

✨ Why I Built It

I wanted a professional space to showcase my programming projects, hardware builds, academic growth, and volunteer work. Coding it from scratch helped reinforce my frontend skills while giving me full creative control.

🧠 Planning the Structure

I split the portfolio into clear sections: Home, About, Education, Projects, Skills, Courses, Experience, Timeline, Growth, and Contact.

🧱 Building the UI

Using Tailwind CSS allowed me to rapidly build a clean, responsive layout. I used gradients, shadows, rounded cards, and subtle animations for a modern feel.

🔍 JavaScript Features

  • Typing animation on the homepage
  • Responsive mobile menu and dropdowns
  • Filterable project grid

🚀 Deployment

I hosted the website on GitHub Pages, making it free, fast, and easy to update using version control.

🔄 What I Learned

  • Mastered responsive design with Tailwind
  • Improved component-based thinking and structure
  • Practiced clean code and user-centered design

🔧 Next Steps

  • Learn React and rebuild the portfolio using components
  • Add dark mode toggle
  • Start a blog using Markdown + JavaScript
  • Embed live project demos or previews

✅ Want to Build Your Own?

Check out my GitHub repo: personal-portfolio

Contact