Soven Saste
714-***-**** linkedin **********@********.***
EDUCATION
UC Berkeley Expected Graduation 2028
Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Environmental Engineering Science, Minor in Mechanical Engineering (B.S.) GPA:3.63
Relevant Coursework: Water Chemistry, Climate Change Adaptations, Engineering Physics 1/2, Atmospheric Chemistry
Focus Areas: Clean Water Access, Climate Change Mitigation, Climate-Resilient and Sustainable Infrastructure
EXPERIENCES
UC Berkeley Environmental Competition Team Berkeley, CA
Lab Manager 2024-Present
●Evaluate existing research and conduct upwards of 40 lab tests to produce low-cost and sustainable systems to produce clean water using only household chemicals and materials such as pickling lime, alum, hydrogen peroxide, GAC, and Aqueon
●Designed and hosted labs to teach new students basics of water treatment for improvement of health and water demand
●Utilize Life Cycle Assessment software to conduct sustainability analysis of materials, maintain health and safety regulations
American Society of Civil Engineers Mid-Pac 2025 Symposium Presenter
●Delivered a detailed overview on the entire process of 40 labs conducted, chemical and filter research and construction, costs, sustainability, and efficacy of the team’s engineered water filter solution for the symposium
●2025 Cal Environmental Team won 2nd place out of 16, judged by affiliated members and water treatment experts
Taarika Foundation (501)(c)(3) Sunnyvale, CA Creative Director and Project Manager Jun 2020-Present
●Currently leading team integrating new AI-backed online platforms to optimize event registration, connect locals to mental health resources, and streamline team efficiency
●Worked to spread mental health awareness for youth mental health issues, focusing on emphasizing paths to care and action
●Personally created and published Spotify podcasts educating viewers about mental health advocacy and paths to care
●Organized mindfulness events to introduce youth to proactive mental health practices through arts and accessible activities .
Saahas For Cause (501)(c)(3) Cerritos, CA Technology Project Lead and Secretary Jul 2021- Jul 2024
●Led a volunteer project aiming to close knowledge gaps in LA county seniors, particularly immigrants, in vital day-to-day functions such as sending emails, paying bills online, organizing files, and using mobile devices
●Hosted in person-classes and spent one-on-one time with seniors, fostering a sense of community and support network
●Project from 3 to over 50 seniors, connecting them with a larger support system for elderly individuals through the organization providing language support for older immigrants and access to social events geared for seniors
●As Secretary, managed the online workspace for over 80 volunteers and adult supervisors; organized outreach events in South Asian religious centers and LA county parks; facilitated meetings with advisors and youth staff, and logged volunteer contributions. Contributions led to a smooth workplace and recognition as a Presidential Volunteer Service Award recipient.
RESEARCH
Clean Water Access Remote
Researcher May-Oct 2023
●Studied global lack of access to clean water. Completed an 8,500 word research paper: Global Lack of Access to Clean Water: Factors and Solutions, intending to publish https://doi.org/10.58445/rars.693
South Asian Mental Health Consortium Hayward, CA
Researcher and Presenter May 2023
●Compiled a research poster about the effects of biculturalism on youth mental health, focusing in South Asian adolescents
●Presented poster at South Asian Mental Health Consortium 2023 at California State University, East Bay, Hayward.
CAMPUS
Golden Bear Orientation Leader Berkeley, CA
●Helped welcome and onboard new students to UC Berkeley during 5-day intensive summer orientation; led August 2025
tours of Berkeley campus, Bay area, and introduced local activities.
Intramural Sports Berkeley, CA
Speed Soccer Goalkeeper, Flag Football Aug 2024- Present
●Played as goalkeeper; team was third in division; created football team with friends, games played in Cal Memorial Stadium
CERTIFICATIONS, SKILLS & INTERESTS
●Certifications: CITI Research Training Completed Feb 2024– distinguished for Human research topics
●Skills: Python, Matlab, Solidworks, Powerpoint, Excel, Writing Reports and Grants, Independent Research,
●Interests: Lifting Weights; Pickleball; Football; Piano; R&B Music; Hiking