Hi, I'm Ashish.
Skills
My Journey
I started programming when I was 15, just going with the flow—never imagining that AI might one day replace my job!
I later found out that choosing the science stream with computers would be good for my future. At that time, I didn’t really know what I wanted to become. After spending two years in it, I decided to continue. In college, I searched on Google for the highest-paying and most secure developer jobs—web development was in the top five! So I started with frontend development and loved how instantly visible the results are. Eventually, I also learned backend because I wanted to build full-stack applications.
Day 1
I was born in Uttarakhand. I am the first child of my parents and the first grandchild in my family.
My mother says I was very quiet and rarely cried. I started school at the age of 3.
Education
Nursery to Class 3
Kendriya Vidyalaya (NHPC Banbasa)
This is where I started my schooling, and I have lots of memories from that time.
I’m still in touch with a few friends since they live near me. Unfortunately, I’ve lost contact with most of them, and many don’t even remember me now—even my best friend once said he doesn’t remember me!
I was very good at drawing.
I was also strong in academics. Because of this, I skipped LKG and went directly to UKG!
Class 4 to 10
St. Francis Senior Secondary School (Tanakpur)
This is where both of my uncles (my father’s brothers) studied.
I don’t have much to say about this phase—this is where I became an average student.
I also had some not-so-great teachers.
I was known as a very funny guy here.
I was also quite popular as a good artist!
Class 11 to 12
Nosegay Public School (Khatima)
During this time, my personality changed a lot. I became more sincere and rarely spoke.
Even teachers had complete trust in me—they would never believe I could do anything wrong.
Once, when I was absent, my physics teacher didn’t teach the class. He said he teaches only for me, as others usually attended his tuition anyway.
I scored the highest in physics—95% in my 12th board exams.
I was loved by everyone here.
I sometimes wish I could go back and experience this phase again.
Bachelors in Technology (Computer Science)
Lovely Professional University (Punjab)
After 12th, I searched online and checked local newspapers to choose the right college.
I scored 80+ in my 12th boards and also cleared the university’s entrance exam, securing a 40% scholarship.
After joining, I honestly didn’t find it valuable—I was quite disappointed.
If I can learn what I want for free, why go to a university just to spend hard-earned money? If I could go back, I wouldn’t join any college.
Dropped out in the 3rd year!
Best decision of my life.
My Hobbies
I have interests beyond coding, such as learning how 3D models are created using Blender, studying music theory, playing the guitar, cycling, and playing video games.
Blender
During COVID
I became interested in game development and learned that it requires 3D models like characters and other assets.
So, I decided to learn Blender. With the help of YouTube, I picked up the basics within a week.
I stopped learning Blender because rendering even a single image took more than 20 minutes!
Cycling
50 km per week
I had a childhood dream of owning a geared cycle. Eventually, I gifted myself one and started cycling regularly.
I believe cycling is great for health—I try to go out at least three times a week.
My longest ride so far is 65 km, including a ride to Nepal!
I service my cycle on my own once a week.
I also ride at night—have spotted snakes on the road a couple of times!
Guitar Journey
Guitar
Aspiring to go professional
One day, I visited my cousin’s house and saw a guitar that had been gifted to my cousin sister.
I tried playing it and found it extremely difficult. That day, I decided to get my own guitar and start learning.
At first, I bought a cheap guitar to see if I could stick with it. Last year, I gifted myself a slightly more expensive one for my birthday. Now, I’ve reached an intermediate level.
Next, I might learn piano or violin!
I also plan to start singing.
Experience
I landed my first job as a Junior Frontend Developer at Smilebots!
Smilebots
September 2022 - Present
I joined Smilebots as a Junior Frontend Developer and started working on a product called Netpractice, which was still in its early stages at the time.
I researched whether to use React Native or Capacitor and also contributed to initial UI components using Figma.
Today, the app has grown to 250K+ downloads. Our goal is to help students practice effectively for any exam using our Neo AI Coach.
Users can also play live matches with their friends, making learning more interactive.
I designed and developed the core frontend architecture for most of the app’s features.
Contributed from the very early stage of the product to scaling it to 250K+ users.
Personal Projects
I’ve built more than 10 personal projects, but only two have been deployed—and currently, only one is actively running.
In the era of AI, I’m actively exploring how to integrate it into my projects. My focus is on building AI-powered applications that can genuinely help people in their daily lives.
Review Destination
Social Media App
I started learning Next.js this year and decided to build a full-stack web application using it.
Currently, I’m developing a social media platform for travelers around the world.
I have also built a custom authentication system from scratch.
Today
I’m still working at the same company as a Frontend Developer.
Currently, I’m focusing on Web Security, Optimization, System Design, and Animations.
I’m also continuing to learn music, as I want to become a professional in this field. I just need to make one hit song—then life is set! I’ll retire and start farming. 😄