Rachael Higgins
Building robust backend logic to dynamic UI, I turn complex requirements into real-world, maintainable code. From adversity to full-stack innovation.
About Me
From adversity to full-stack innovation, I've turned setbacks into source code. With a strong STEM foundation and relentless drive, I build real-world solutions— from scalable backends to responsive frontends.
I write clean, efficient code with purpose, using every challenge as fuel to grow, solve, and ship. I'm not here just to build apps—I'm here to break barriers, inspire through action, and prove that where you start doesn't define how far you can go.
Technologies I Work With
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Featured Projects
Explore my latest work and open-source contributions
Flashcard AI (Production Site)
Developed an AI-powered flashcard generation platform using Next.js, JavaScript, and Supabase with integrated authentication, enabling users to automatically create personalized study materials and track learning progress through intelligent spaced repetition algorithms.
HRPR - AI Event Assistant
Developed an AI-powered Human-like, Responsive, Personal Representative for conferences and festivals. Features voice-driven natural conversation to help attendees find sessions, explore sponsors, and navigate venues in real-time.
Assessment Pathways Chrome Extension
Created an AI-powered Chrome extension for automated grading that integrates seamlessly with educational platforms, enabling teachers to provide instant feedback and assessment on student submissions.
Reuben Adkins - Musician Portfolio
Designed and developed a professional portfolio website for a guitarist, featuring music samples, tour dates, and booking functionality with a focus on artistic presentation and user engagement.
Willy's Philly's Food Truck Website
Collaborated on building a responsive frontend for a local Arizona-based food truck using React and Tailwind CSS, emphasizing mobile-first design and brand consistency.
Rachael Higgins Portfolio
Built an interactive portfolio with Next.js 14 featuring 3D visualizations using Three.js, AI-powered chat assistant, Framer Motion animations, and optimized performance achieving 98+ Lighthouse scores.
Technical Skills
Constantly evolving and learning new technologies
React
95% ProficiencyJavaScript
92% ProficiencyTailwind CSS
88% ProficiencyThree.js
80% ProficiencyNext.js
75% ProficiencyTypeScript
70% ProficiencyInteractive Showcase
Explore molecular structures through interactive 3D visualization powered by Three.js
Work Experience
My professional journey and key accomplishments in software development
Teaching Team Assistant
Columbia University
- Support 11-week AI Edge cohort, providing technical guidance in Python, APIs, and backend development to justice-impacted adult learners while facilitating live Zoom sessions (Mon-Thurs, 6:15-9:30 PM EST)
- Conduct weekly office hours and grade assignments in Canvas LMS, delivering personalized coding support and constructive feedback to help fellows develop foundational software and AI skills
- Monitor Slack channels for technical questions, track common issues, and submit weekly performance notes to optimize curriculum delivery and student success
Software Engineer
Banyan Labs
- Lead Agile Scrum teams as Project Manager and Lead Developer across multiple AI-powered applications, managing project timelines and deliverables using ClickUp
- Oversee development of AI-driven platforms including a government grant proposal evaluation system (React, Python, SQLAlchemy, FastAPI, Next.js) and HRPR personal assistant (OpenAI API, RAG, Supabase)
- Leverage AI tools and APIs to accelerate development cycles while guiding junior developers through version control best practices and AI integration techniques
Software Engineer
Assessment Pathways
- Developed a Google Chrome extension using React, JavaScript, and Node.js to assist teachers in grading assignments with AI-generated feedback
- Implemented OAuth2 authentication and Google Cloud Platform integration to ensure secure access, scalability, and efficient AI processing
- Collaborated with educators and developers in an Agile environment to optimize AI models for accurate grading and enhance user experience
Get In Touch
Have a project in mind? Let's work together to create something amazing.
Let's Build Something Amazing
I'm always open to discussing new projects, creative ideas, or opportunities to be part of your visions.