AI Launch Lab: Build Your First AI App

Taught By

Aakash Suresh

Aakash Suresh is a UC Berkeley Machine Learning researcher studying Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, and Bioengineering. He has conducted research at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and built AI systems at organizations like T-Mobile and Quest Diagnostics, working across healthcare, data engineering, and predictive modeling. A Coca-Cola Scholar and multiple national research grant awardee, Aakash combines top-tier academic achievement with hands-on industry and research experience. His work includes developing cancer risk models, deploying AI-driven data systems, and publishing research in machine learning applications. As lead mentor for AI Launch Lab, he guides students in building standout AI projects, developing strong technical foundations, and positioning themselves for admission to top 20 universities.

Week by Week Curriculum

Week 1 - Ideation + Foundations

Explore examples of AI apps and brainstorm ideas
Define the target user, problem, and simple MVP scope
Introduction to tools like Cursor/Claude Code and basic APIs
Goal: Clear app idea + simple product spec

Week 2 - Planning + Architecture

Break the app into components (UI, backend, AI integration)
Introduce prompt engineering and API usage
Create rough wireframes and feature checklist
Goal: Project plan + basic architecture

Week 3 - Core Build (Part 1)

Set up the project and build the first working version
Develop basic UI and make the initial AI call
Focus on getting something functional quickly
Goal: First working prototype

Week 4 - Core Build (Part 2)

Expand functionality and improve prompts
Debug issues and refine the user experience
Introduce basic testing and iteration workflows
Goal: Functional MVP with core features

Week 5 - Polish + Testing

Refine UI and handle edge cases
Conduct simple user testing
Add light branding or a landing page if time permits
Goal: Polished, demo-ready app

Week 6 - Demo + Presentation

Learn how to present (problem → solution → demo → impact)
Record a short demo video of your application
Present projects to the cohort