Mechanical Engineering & Design

Hi, I’m Sumaiya! A sophmore at Northeastern passionate about creating thoughtful, human-centered projects.

I am excited to merge software, electronics, and mechanics to design creative and useful projects. I’m currently working at 10Beauty as a Mechanical Engineering co-op.

About

At Northeastern, I split my time between studio courses and hands-on builds that use code, CAD, and fabrication. I enjoy translating complex ideas into playful, tangible experiences. Often through sensors, LEDs, and rapid-prototyped parts.

Tools I’ve been using: SolidWorks, Arduino, C++, laser cutting, and collaborative design workflows.

Sumaiya Dharsi headshot

Explore my work

Skills

CAD & Mechanics

Programming Languages

Collaboration

Resume

Education

Northeastern University — B.S. Mechanical Engineering & Design (Expected May 2028), GPA 3.49/4.00

Boston, MA

Relevant Coursework: Cornerstone of Engineering 1 & 2, Statics, Thermodynamics, Designing Interactive Experiences, Making with Forms

Associations: Society of Women Engineers, Undergraduate South Asian Organization, Islamic Society (ISNU)


Projects

Redesigning Tiffin — Personal Project (Fall 2025 to Present)

  • Redesigned a traditional multi-tier tiffin to be microwave safe while preserving stacking and portability features, using SolidWorks for modeling and iterative prototyping.
  • Applied research and development methods, including user research and material analysis, to evaluate design trade-offs and optimize for safety, durability, and user convenience.

Flexir: Hand Physical Therapy Tool — Cornerstone of Engineering Project (Spring 2025)

  • Designed and prototyped a wearable rehabilitation device using SolidWorks and 3D printing, incorporating Arduino sensors to support hand mobility recovery.
  • Integrated sensors with MATLAB and Arduino to monitor patient progress during at-home therapy, enabling data sharing with healthcare providers.
  • Conducted and analyzed 10 hand-movement tests in MATLAB to validate sensor accuracy and functionality.

Wreck-It Ralph: Building Disaster — Cornerstone of Engineering Project (Fall 2024)

  • Developed an interactive educational game using C++, Arduino, and laser-cut components to introduce children to structural engineering concepts.
  • Programmed an Arduino-based passcode system to unlock rooms and advance through game levels.
  • Conducted user experience testing, gathering feedback to refine gameplay and improve learning outcomes
  • Gained practical prototyping and teamwork experience through collaborative, hands-on design.

Experience

Office Assistant — Northeastern University Department of Economics (Sep 2024 – Present)

  • Digitize and organize confidential student records in line with university standards.
  • Support daily operations: front desk assistance, visitor support, and inventory upkeep.

Volunteer, Coach & Player — Umoja Outreach Foundation (Summers 2015 – Present)

  • Coached two U12 girls’ soccer teams to the semifinals and supported 3,000-person events.
  • Coordinated logistics for opening/closing ceremonies and tournament operations.

Design Intern — Digitech Printers, East Meadow, NY (Summer 2023)

  • Produced custom apparel designs for 7+ clients using heat press and vinyl.
  • Gained hands-on exposure to a professional design & production workflow.

Skills

Languages

Interests

Get in touch

Want to chat about a co-op or project? Reach out via email or LinkedIn. I’m happy to share work samples and iterate on ideas.