James Aravena Email & Phone Number

New York, New York, United States

Advancing the future of battery energy storage technology with engineering and economic models over a three month summer internship period. Working closely with energy companies to facilitate large scale projects to advance the NYC energy infrastructure.

New York, United States

I had a tremendous time at my time at Columbia University this summer. Thank you to Susie Park and Dr. Lauren Marbella for their mentorship and guidance.During my internship, I actively participated in manufacturing cells, synthesizing cathode materials, and analyzing the intercalation systems of at least 20 cells. I developed my skills in project management as my research was self-guided. For example, managing lab time and creating an algorithm to sort and plot data in a much faster time than manually importing and analyzing information. Despite managing my project and time, my ability to communicate also shined through in regular meetings with the 15-member team, where I discussed my progress, shared research findings, and asked thoughtful questions to my team concerning boundaries I faced in my work. The most important aspect of leadership is collaboration and integrity. Thus, I presented my algorithm and recommended its use in future data collection. Through constructive feedback, my algorithm was made compatible with the data of other team members, highlighting my ability to lead and manage complex issues. Not only did my project excel, but I was able to add to the work of other teammates.The data collected was focused on the intercalation mechanisms of lithium, potassium, and sodium batteries. Synthesizing a tuneable cathode material, I explored the efficiency of these batteries, shedding light on the reasons behind the different transference mechanisms of cathodes. Data led to the conclusion that potassium batteries are hindered by the atomic size and ion-ion repulsions in energy intercalation systems. This was clear in their intercalation profiles and Columbic efficiency calculations.

New York City Metropolitan Area

My role at Peter Luger Steak House was diverse and has thoroughly developed my ability to manage a restaurant setting that will transfer to other walks of business. With my knowledge of Excel and adaptive problem-solving skills, the world-renowned restaurant could track its expenses and margins better. I also developed a delivery service that not only kept the business afloat during the pandemic but continues to generate substantial profit.I was hired at the spark of the COVID-19 pandemic. Indoor dining was unavailable, and the restaurant’s revenue had significantly decreased. I was tasked with organizing and maintaining a first-time food delivery service. I learned how businesses calculate profit and revenue margins and built an Excel macro to help organize the delivery process. I contacted online food services like DoorDash and Caviar and set up additional delivery services. I interviewed one to two aspiring employees annually. I computerized import audits by creating and maintaining Excel spreadsheets to track new food delivery data, ensuring accurate records and efficient management of the delivery process. I played a vital role in customer satisfaction by taking responsibility to address issues and ensure a positive experience promptly. During the height of COVID-19, I often worked multiple positions, including operating a cash-only paper booking system and cash register, handling approximately $100,000 in sales per day.I developed problem-solving skills in this role when the relationship between the kitchen, waiters, and delivery services became increasingly stressful. I was tasked to determine the best way to maintain delivery output without adding pressure on the kitchen. I learned that testing and downstream communication are essential. Talking to both the delivery team and the kitchen, tweaks to the original delivery plan were made.