Hi, I'm Christian Rutherford

Computer Science & Russian Studies @ Davidson College

Dedicated. Gritty. Curious. Adaptable.

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About Me

Rising Senior at Davidson College, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a minor in Russian Studies. Member of the school's NCAA Division I wrestling team and possesses deep interests in blockchain and DeFi technology, quantitative finance, and open-source intelligence (OSINT).

Attracted to the national security space, seeking to apply analytical, technical, and language skills to support counterintelligence/intelligence, counterterrorism, and international operations objectives in law enforcement or private intelligence companies.

Passionate about leveraging data-driven insights to overcome relevant, real-world challenges, whether identifying and capitalising upon inefficiencies in the markets, or supporting efforts to protect national interests.

6+ Projects Completed
4+ Years Learning
500+ Hours Coding
Christian Rutherford

Education

Davidson College

Davidson, NC Expected May 2026
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Minor in Russian Studies

Academic Honours

  • 2023 Gilman Scholar (U.S. Dept. of State)
  • 2023 Critical Language Award (Azerbaijani)
  • 2021 QuestBridge National College Match Scholar

Extracurriculars & Leadership

  • President of Russian Language Club
  • Investment and Finance Association
  • Blockchains Club
  • Eastern European Club
  • Society of Physics Students
  • Pre-Consulting Society
  • Dobro Slovo National Slavic Honor Society

Relevant Coursework

Data Structures Computer Organization Multivariable Calculus & Modeling Blockchains Data Visualization Discrete Structures Linear Algebra Analysis of Algorithms Machine Learning Russian 201/202 Advanced Russian Conversation Advanced Russian: Contemporary Culture Intro to International Relations

University of York

York, United Kingdom August 2024 - January 2025
Study Abroad Participant
Computer Science and Russian Studies

Coursework

  • Cryptography Theory & Practice
  • Systems & Devices 2: Operating Systems, Security and Networking
  • Catherine the Great

Involvements

  • Halifax College Rugby
  • UoY Athletics Club
  • UoY Judo
  • Trading Society
  • Turkish Society
  • Cocktail Society

Azerbaijan University of Languages

Baku, Azerbaijan Summer 2024
Study Abroad Participant
Secondary Language Learning – Azerbaijani

Program Summary

  • 8-week intensive language program by American Councils for International Education
  • 16 hours/week studying grammar, reading, writing, and conversation
  • Achieved B-1 proficiency rating on the CEFR scale

Professional Experience

Information Technology Intern

Paradigm Companies Washington, DC April 2025 - August 2025 Internship
  • Provide IT support and assist with company-wide system maintenance, network configuration, and cybersecurity
  • Develop custom Python, JavaScript, and PowerShell scripts maximising operational efficiency, automating Active Directory management, and improving day-to-day workflows
  • Lead anti-phishing initiatives by deploying threat simulations, analysing results, and identifying key areas of vulnerability

Data Collector [Team Leader]

College Crisis Initiative Davidson, NC September 2022 - May 2025 Part-Time
  • Gather information for varying research projects revolving around US higher-education institutions
  • Coordinate with team members to complete collections by set deadlines to provide analysts with workable datasets
  • Collected data on standardised test policies & scores, COVID-19 policies, board of trustee member demographics, accent-reduction programs, student recruitment patterns, and IPEDS UnitIDs from 1500+ US colleges & universities

NCAA Division 1 Wrestler

Davidson College Men's Wrestling Team Davidson, NC August 2022 - May 2026 Full-Time
  • Devote 20-30 hrs/week to team events, including practices, workouts, and mindset meetings, while simultaneously managing a rigorous course load each semester
  • Analyse film to improve skills and technique in preparation for competition, both for specific individuals and teams as a whole
  • Promote the program to prospective recruits and their families, giving tours, and hosting athletes overnight

Poll Worker

Rhode Island Board of Elections Rhode Island 2020 - 2022 Seasonal
  • Ensured smooth operation of polling stations during federal, state, and local elections
  • Assisted voters with ballot completion, equipment operation, and voting procedures while maintaining strict neutrality
  • Maintained accurate voter records and handled sensitive election materials with integrity and confidentiality
  • Collaborated with election officials to resolve technical issues and ensure compliance with election laws

USA Wrestling Official

USA Wrestling Rhode Island & North Carolina 2019 - 2022 Part-Time
  • Officiate wrestling matches at youth, high school, and collegiate levels, ensuring fair play and athlete safety
  • Make split-second decisions under pressure while maintaining composure and authority
  • Continuously study rule changes and attend clinics to maintain certification and improve officiating skills
  • Communicate effectively with coaches, athletes, and tournament directors to resolve conflicts and clarify rulings

Skills

Languages

Python C/C++ SQL JavaScript/HTML/CSS Solidity TypeScript PowerShell

Libraries & Technologies

Node.js Next.js D3.js Three.js React NumPy SciPy Pandas Matplotlib Seaborn OpenZeppelin

Tools & Frameworks

Microsoft 365 PowerAutomate Active Directory Google Workspace Agile Kanban Git React Azure VSCode Jupyter Notebook Streamlit

Soft Skills

Azerbaijani Russian Project Management Leadership Decisiveness Teamwork Cultural Adaptation

Volunteering & Leadership

Eagle Scout

Boy Scouts of America 2015 - 2022

Achieved the highest rank in Scouting, demonstrating leadership, community service, and outdoor skills. Led multiple community service projects and mentored younger scouts in leadership development.

Patrol Leader Troop Instructor Quartermaster Webmaster

Young Marine

US Young Marines 2016 - 2022

Advanced through ranks to Gunnery Sergeant within the Rhode Island Young Marines, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication. Participated in community service activities, leadership training, and mentorship programs.

Gunnery Sergeant Rank Unit Gunnery Sergeant Unit First Sergeant National Advanced Leadership School Top #5 Graduate

Volunteer

Animal Welfare League of Rhode Island 2025 - Present

Provide care and support for rescue animals, assisted with adoption events, and helped maintain facility operations. Contributed to animal welfare initiatives and community outreach programs.

Assistant Coach & Volunteer

Mayo Quanchi Judo & Wrestling 2022 - Present

Coach youth athletes in judo and wrestling techniques, promoted sportsmanship and discipline, and assisted with tournament organisation and facility management.

Organisations & Memberships

Mensa Society

International High IQ Society

Member of the international society for individuals with high IQ, fostering intellectual discussion and community engagement.

QuestBridge

Educational Non-Profit

Alumni of the prestigious program connecting high-achieving, low-income students with leading colleges and universities. 2021 National College Match Scholar.

Languages

English

Native

Native speaker with professional writing and communication skills.

Russian

Advanced (C1)

Academic study and practical application through coursework and cultural immersion.

Azerbaijani

Intermediate (B1)

Achieved through intensive 8-week immersion program at Azerbaijan University of Languages.

Honours, Awards, & Certifications

ACTFL Oral Proficiency Interview - Azerbaijani

ACTFL

1 Aug., 2024 | Exp. 2 Aug., 2026

Achieved Intermediate Mid proficiency level (B-1 CEFR equivalent) in spoken Azerbaijani through standardized oral proficiency assessment. Certification demonstrates ability to handle routine social and professional conversations with confidence.

2023 Gilman Scholar

U.S. Department of State

2023

Prestigious scholarship recipient for study abroad program, recognising academic excellence and leadership potential in international education.

View Credential

2023 Critical Language Award

U.S. Department of State

2023

Special recognition for Azerbaijani language studies, supporting critical language learning initiatives.

QuestBridge National College Match Scholar

QuestBridge

2021

Selected as a National College Match Scholar, providing full four-year scholarship to Davidson College based on academic achievement and leadership potential.

Young Marine of the Year

Young Marines

2021, 2022

Recognised as Young Marine of the Year by Rhode Island and New England Marine Corps League divisions for exceptional leadership, dedication to service, and outstanding performance in all aspects of the program. This honor reflects commitment to the Young Marines' core values of teamwork, self-reliance, and moral courage.

Writing Samples

Analysis of the Russia-Ukraine War Through the Lens of The Four Contemporary International Relations Theories

POL-161 – Introduction to International Relations

Davidson College

Comprehensive analysis examining the Russia-Ukraine conflict through the theoretical frameworks of realism, liberalism, constructivism, and critical theory. The paper explores how each IR theory explains the causes, conduct, and consequences of the war, providing a multi-dimensional understanding of contemporary international relations.

International Relations Political Analysis Geopolitics

The Financialisation of Housing

Financial Markets Course

Yale University

In-depth examination of how financial markets have transformed residential housing from a basic necessity into a financial commodity. The paper analyzes the role of institutional investors, mortgage-backed securities, and global capital flows in reshaping housing markets and their socioeconomic implications.

Financial Markets Housing Policy Economic Analysis

Projects

📈
Featured

Options Pricing Dashboard

Streamlit Python dashboard for options pricing and volatility analysis, featuring Black-Scholes models, implied volatility estimation, option Greeks, and 3D volatility surface visualisation with Plotly.

Python Streamlit Plotly
🖥️

Simple Shell

C program simulating a shell found in modern computer operating systems, featuring BASH reading, parsing, and command execution functionality.

C Systems Programming BASH
🏗️

The Watchtower

Web application project demonstrating full-stack development capabilities with modern technologies and responsive design principles.

JavaScript HTML/CSS Web Development
⚡

Active Directory Automation

Microsoft PowerShell tool dashboard that dramatically increases speed and effectiveness of managing users within an Active Directory environment.

PowerShell Active Directory Automation
💹

Trading Analysis Tools

Python programs for financial analysis including correlational heatmaps, risk vs reward calculations, and backtesting both short & long-term moving average strategies and Stan Weinstein's strategy against a buy & hold strategy.

Python Financial Analysis Data Science
🔐

Cipher Encryptor/Decryptor

Python program providing encryption/decryption functionality for various ciphers using bruteforce or given keys. Supports Caesar, Vigenere, Rail Fence ciphers, and ASCII conversions (decimal, hex, binary, octal).

Python Cryptography Security

Let's Connect

Get In Touch

I'm always open to discussing new opportunities, collaborations, or just a coffee chat about OSINT, AI/ML, or significant events in the markets.

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