Skills | Zelus

The coalescence of technique and passion

Ever learning

I complement my education with self-taught skills. TryHackMe, YouTube, and project documentation, and research for new tools to elevate my knowledge in algorithms, the Linux OS, cognitive learning science, and game design. These tools have helped my coursework and increased output quality. I hone and maintain my skills through daily morning study sessions.

Scripting

Python Scripting

In my junior year, I worked with a team of four to construct a simulator, assembler, and linker-loader. Extensive system testing was required, which was initially taxing to perform manually. To automate this and expedite progress, I developed a Python script that ran all test files for the entire program, including individual scripts for components like the assembler. I also leveraged AI (Gemini 3) to proofread the code and implement efficiency changes.

Initially, our simulator component lacked proper testing, causing the program to pass only 10 out of 30 test cases. After implementing comprehensive test scripts and making improvements, we boosted our performance by 57%, achieving a final score of 38 out of 42 passed test cases on the assembler project.

The main function in the assembler Python script.

Running the assembler test script.

BASH Fluency

Linux is my main operating system, and I use the terminal daily for core tasks like updating software or setting brute-force Iptables rules for SSH connections. While I am still growing my expertise in these commands, I commit to consistent use to learn and improve my proficiency every day.

Using the find command and regex to find files in a project directory.

Linux

Home Lab

Linux offers a powerful arsenal of both blue and red team security tools due to its open-source nature, flexible environment, and command-line interface. This is the platform where I conducted my SSH project and where I solve various TryHackMe rooms.

Running the terminal, Kate text editor, and Kali Linux in VirtualBox.

Virtual Labs

VirtualBox creates an environment to run virtual machines on the current OS. This provided expanded opportunities such as testing compatibility, taking more security risks when experimenting, and using the Tor browser to learn about the dark web.

Using the Whonix virtual machine to safely access the dark web with the Tor browser.

Project Highlight:
Kali Linux

I utilized Kali Linux as my dedicated virtual attack machine to execute the offensive phase of the SSH project. Using Kali, I first employed Nmap to confirm the availability of port 22 on the target host, and then I leveraged the Metasploit Framework to launch the SSH brute-force attempt. I also returned to the Kali machine in the final phase to run a subsequent Nmap scan after the defense was active, confirming that the host firewall successfully filtered my connection.

Using Nmap in a Kali Linux virtual machine to scan my personal machine.

Learning Science

Higher order

A learning system can intensify speed and depth. My learning has dramatically improved after hours of technique study, months of practice, trial and error of new strategies, and reflection. In high school, I did not earn valedictorian, unlike the other Ohio State University attendees (I was .012 points shy); however, as the first semester concluded, the dean's list included only one other student from my school.

This area of discipline has allowed me to discover even more about learning, creating a positive cycle. With this extra time, I build technical skills, study ahead, and keep healthy.

Mindmap over the basics of AI Agents

Git

The Heart of a Project

During my junior year, our professor mandated git control for our team's repository. I quickly grasped how to manage a project between multiple branches, collaborate with teammates via a remote repository, and fix file conflicts. I made an initiative to only use git in the terminal to accustom myself with the commands.

Rebasing a branch to fix commit conflicts.