Valerio Siniscalco

I am a Computer Science undergraduate in my final year, with a strong focus on both the theoretical and practical aspects of the field. Throughout my academic journey, I have built a solid foundation in areas such as mathematical and theoretical principles of Informatics, optimization, algorithm design, while also developing the skills to apply this knowledge effectively to solve real-world problems.

Right now, I am concentrating on Statistics, Data Science, Machine Learning, and Operational Research, as I work on projects and coursework that explore topics like predictive modeling, resource allocation, and decision-making systems. These areas align with my current goals and interests as I continue to grow my expertise.

Looking ahead, I aim to expand into Computational Cognitive and Social Sciences, a field that fascinates me for its interdisciplinary approach and potential to address complex challenges across diverse domains. To prepare for this, I am independently studying Algorithmic Game Theory, exploring its applications in decision-making, multi-agent systems, and economic modeling. This direction reflects my curiosity and passion for leveraging technology to better understand intricate human behaviors and societal dynamics.

I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at the University of Milan in Italy, where I maintain a GPA of 9.15/10.

During Spring Semester 2024, I participated in the Erasmus+ Exchange Program at Vilnius University, Lithuania.

Through the 4EU+ program, I also engaged with several European institutions. At Sorbonne University, I explored AI from ethical and legal perspectives, aligning with EU guidelines and considering GDPR implications.

Concurrently at Charles University, Prague, I am applying computational thinking and algorithmic problem-solving in education, influenced by pedagogical frameworks like Constructionism and Constructivism.

My academic journey thus reflects a broad, interdisciplinary exposure to European educational environments and collaborations.

My background in Foundational Computer Science Theory encompasses Complexity Theory (including P vs NP and NP-completeness), Automata Theory (covering finite automata, pushdown automata, and Turing machines), and Formal Languages (ranging from regular expressions to context-free grammars).

I have hands-on experience with various Algorithms and Data Structures, such as linear programming (e.g., Simplex), graph traversal and pathfinding (Dijkstra’s, A*), minimum spanning tree algorithms (Kruskal’s and Prim’s), dynamic programming, backtracking, and FFT. This is complemented by proficiency in core data structures, including graph representations, BST/AVL trees, heaps, union-find, and hash tables.

My programming skill set spans both procedural (Python with NumPy/Pandas, Java, Go) and functional paradigms (OCaml, Scala, Erlang, Guile Scheme, Elisp). I also have a solid grasp of SQL (PostgreSQL) and NoSQL (MongoDB) databases for schema design, optimal querying, and overall performance tuning.

As a practitioner of literate programming, I embrace Knuth’s methodology to integrate code and documentation cohesively. Leveraging Emacs Org-mode allows me to produce well-structured LaTeX and HTML outputs, enhancing transparency, comprehension, and maintainability in my projects.

Emacs

Versatile tool used for tasks ranging from coding to documentation. Customized extensively using Elisp (a Lisp dialect) to enhance productivity and adapt the environment to specific workflows.

Self-Hosting

Manage personal web services, including a self-hosted Git server for version control and project management.

Guix System

Free and open-source Linux distribution utilized for declarative system configuration, transactional upgrades, and reproducible environments, leveraging Guile Scheme.

LaTeX

Skilled in creating professional documents such as academic papers, CVs, and reports, with an emphasis on clean formatting and automation.

• Automata Movement on Uneven Terrain (Winter Semester 2025)
  
  • Modeled discrete grid environments with obstacles and signal-based navigation
    
  • Incorporated Manhattan distance rules, binary identifier matching, and rectangular obstacle avoidance using Go
    
• Labyrinth Solver (Spring Semester 2024)
  
  • Generated and solved mazes programmatically using BFS and DFS algorithms
    
  • Built a Java application with OOP principles and used the Processing framework library for animations
    

• Currently collaborating with a multidisciplinary team from the University of Milan and Bocconi University in the University Startup Challenge. Focused on developing a startup aimed at leveraging machine learning solutions for Smart Cities for municipalities.
  
• Ranked in the top 10 in Milan at the Cloudflight Coding Contest, showcasing strong problem-solving skills under time constraints.
  
• Participated in the volunteering project "Green-ited for Future" at Jugendakademie Walberberg, Bornheim (near Cologne), through the European Solidarity Corps in Summer 2022. The project focused on ecology and sustainability, where I contributed to activities promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices. The experience involved teamwork, nonformal education methods, and cultural exchange with participants from across Europe.
  

• Music composition and performance have been integral parts of my life. I have been playing the guitar for over 10 years and am currently studying Classical and Jazz piano. Composing music allows me to express creativity while balancing my analytical pursuits in computer science. I also compose electronic music using both analog and digital audio workstations, experimenting with sound design and blending genres to create unique compositions.
  
• I am passionate about maintaining bioactive terrariums, where I have been keeping two colonies of isopods in a self-sustaining environment for over 3 years. This hobby reflects my interest in ecology and sustainable systems. Additionally, I have rescued and care for a bearded dragon, providing it with a safe and enriched habitat.
  
• Two writers I deeply admire are Umberto Eco and Hermann Hesse. Their books, especially The Island of the Day Before and Siddhartha, have been meaningful to me —in different ways— and have shaped how I think about life, spirituality, philosophy, and personal growth.