The diverse projects and coursework have allowed me to demonstrate my strengths, refine my professional goals, and develop values that align with the fast-paced and ever-evolving nature of the computer science field. I have had the opportunity to work on a variety of challenges that required a mix of technical expertise, creativity, and collaboration, skills that are essential for success in this industry.

Throughout the program, I have developed strong skills in collaborating within team environments, which has proven critical in delivering effective software solutions. Working on group projects has taught me how to communicate technical concepts clearly, break down tasks, and manage the trade-offs involved in decision-making. One of the most significant experiences was a team-based project where we designed and built a functional web application. This required close collaboration, regular communication, and accountability to ensure that our individual pieces fit together cohesively. The experience honed my ability to coordinate with others, both technically and interpersonally, preparing me to work effectively in professional team environments.

I became proficient in a range of algorithms and data structures, which I applied in various projects, such as developing an algorithm testing application. This application allowed me to explore the trade-offs between efficiency and memory usage for different algorithms, further sharpening my skills in analyzing time complexity and optimizing performance. Learning to identify the most suitable data structures and algorithms based on specific requirements has empowered me to design efficient, scalable solutions to complex problems.

My experience with software engineering and database management has been equally impactful. I had the opportunity to work extensively with both front-end and back-end technologies in multiple projects, from developing an interactive game with Python/Flask, Angular and Phaser to building a full-stack grocery tracker application using Java/Spring Boot and MySQL. These projects allowed me to apply principles of software engineering, such as modular design and clean code practices, while deepening my knowledge of relational databases, query optimization, and schema design. The hands-on practice I gained in database design and implementation has provided me with valuable insights into building secure, reliable, and scalable systems that deliver meaningful business value.