Current Chagrin Falls High School 12th grader, Shlok Bhattacharya, has recently established a nonprofit organization, Cognitive Harmony Inc., which has obtained 501(c)(3) charity status (http://www.cognitiveharmony.org/). This nonprofit is dedicated to researching primordial prevention methods aimed at delaying or preventing conditions like anxiety and depression in young adults, utilizing technology, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. This topic directly correlates with Shlok’s focus for his AP Research project in the 2022-23 school year at Chagrin Falls High School.
As part of Shlok’s efforts in establishing Cognitive Harmony, Inc., he is currently collaborating with Dr. Sandra Kubler, Professor of Linguistics and Adjunct Professor of Computer Science at Indiana University, Bloomington, and her PhD students. Together, they are collaboratively developing computational models to analyze the dissemination of hate speech and conspiracy theories. While the topic is related, this research goes well beyond the scope of his study and work accomplished via AP Research.
Through Shlok’s nonprofit work and continued research, he has successfully created and launched a social media app called i2Vibes, available on both Apple and Android platforms. This initiative promotes self-discovery and combats anxiety and depression by fostering positive engagement within one's social network.
In an effort to expand the reach of the cause and enhance awareness, Shlok has assembled an executive team of high school students from across the nation and around the globe. Furthermore, he is actively striving to establish both national and international chapters by the end of 2023. Additionally, Shlok has garnered the support of several non-executive advisors, including an undergraduate student from Stanford University and a medical professional. He is actively pursuing the inclusion of prominent business leaders in the fields of artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Furthermore, Shlok has formed an active partnership with community leader Master Jason Zakrajsek. Master Jason is a well-known part of the Chagrin Falls community and is the owner of Korean martial arts dojo Kuk Sul Do and Brazilian jiu jitsu studio Chagrin Valley Jiu Jitsu. This partnership is set to harness the collective power of cognitive well-being and physical discipline to empower individuals against the challenges of anxiety and depression.
“Shlok Bhattacharya is an outstanding example of a Chagrin Falls High School student who is truly growing and thriving,” commented Chagrin Falls High School Principal, Mrs. Amanda Rassi. Director of Curriculum, Mrs. Becky Quinn, added, “Throughout Shlok’s outstanding career in Chagrin Falls Exempted Village Schools, he has continued to seek out opportunities to maximize his potential and challenge himself. His research and recent work has not only energized and grown him as a learner, but also has the capacity to truly make a positive impact upon the field of mental health, while also inspiring other students.”
