About
Hello! I'm Diego Jurado, a passionate full-stack software engineer soon to graduate from the esteemed University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Currently based in the vibrant city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and I anticipate continuing to contribute to this community for the foreseeable future.
My journey in technology is underlined by a profound commitment to crafting a future that is not just technologically advanced, but also sustainable, secure, and private. This dedication stems from my invaluable experience working alongside Dr. Malihe Alikhani in the University of Pittsburgh AI Ethics research lab, where I delved into the ethical dimensions of data security, privacy, reliability, and bias. Additionally, my research shed light on the environmental implications of computing technologies, particularly the ecological footprint associated with training large AI models like LLMs.
Beyond the realm of technology, I find solace in the world of literature, particularly within the works of authors such as Osamu Dazai, Kazuo Ishiguro, Kurt Vonnegut, and Ray Bradbury. Currently, my favorite novel, "No Longer Human" by Dazai, resonates deeply with me. In my spare time, I also channel my creativity into making video games. Notably, during my senior year at university, I collaborated with a talented team to develop "Immorticulture," a game centered around environmental stewardship and community engagement, which garnered the prestigious "Judge’s Choice" Award at the Games 4 Social Impact Game Jam.
At my core, I am guided by the principles of being Pro-Environment, Pro-Education, and Pro-Family. As I embark on my professional journey, I am eager to specialize within software engineering, with a keen interest in software architecture or quality assurance. My aim is to leverage my skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to projects that align with my values and make a positive impact on society.
I look forward to the exciting opportunities and challenges that lie ahead as I continue to grow and evolve in my career.
Projects
Currently
Key Skills: Godot Engine, Level Design, Story Writing
Grave Robber will be a 2D platformer created in the Godot game engine, where players control a resurrected skeleton tasked with returning other skeletons to their graves. By collecting and fusing special bones from humans and non-humans, players unlock unique abilities while uncovering the mystery behind their disturbed slumber. I'm hoping with engaging gameplay, an intriguing storyline, and captivating visuals, Grave Robber will offer a memorable gaming experience.
As the key game developer and programmer for Grave Robber, I'll have the opportunity to enhance a diverse range of skills critical to game development. My proficiency in programming languages such as GDScript, Python, or C# will undoubtedly see significant growth as I tackle complex challenges in implementing gameplay mechanics, optimizing performance, and debugging code. Through my work with the Godot game engine, I'll deepen my understanding of game development concepts and gain valuable experience in utilizing its tools and features to bring my vision to life. Additionally, my expertise in problem-solving will be put to the test as I navigate technical hurdles and find innovative solutions to enhance player experience.
Web Applications
Key Skills: REST APIs, React, Flask, Python
A very simple budget application for a single user. The application supports several budget categories, and a set monthly limit for each category (e.g., $825 for rent, $400 for groceries, $130 for gas, etc.). The application allows the user to enter new categories and purchases and present up to date lists of the user's current categories and past purchases. Any purchases that were over budget for that month will be highlighted red in the list. The purpose of the project was to gain expeirence building RESTful APIs, and using two web-based frameworks cohesively. I gained experience using React, Flask, Python, ORMs, and REST APIs.
Due to the academic integrity policies of CS 1520 (Programming Languages for Web Apps) and the University of Pittsburgh I am unable to share this code publicly. However, upon request, I will be more than happy to demo the project, explain how it works and how I implemented it.
Key Skills: Java, JDBC, PostgreSQL, Project Management
The primary goal of this project is to implement a single Java application program that will operate BeSocial, a Social Networking System. The core of such a system is a database system. The secondary goal is to learn how to work as a member of a team which designs and develops a relatively large, real database application. I am implementing an application program using Java, PostgreSQL, and JDBC. The focus is on the actual service and not the UI elements. One of the more fun aspects of the project was using Python to write a script that would generate SQL `Insert` statements to be used as sample data.
Due to the academic integrity policies of CS 1555 (Database Management Systems) and the University of Pittsburgh I am unable to share this code publicly. However, upon request, I will be more than happy to demo the project, explain how it works and how I implemented it.
Key Skills: Python, Flask, JavaScript, AJAX, JSON
A web application that hosts and manages chat rooms. The purpose of this project was to gain experience using AJAX and JSON by building a website to host and manage multiple chat rooms. I also gained experience with HTML, JavaScript, Python, and Flask while implementing this project.
Due to the academic integrity policies of CS 1520 (Programming Languages for Web Apps) and the University of Pittsburgh I am unable to share this code publicly. However, upon request, I will be more than happy to demo the project, explain how it works and how I implemented it.
Key Skills: Python, Flask, JavaScript, HTML
A web application for a catering company. This website functions as an event scheduler, where customers can request events, and staff can sign up to work events. The goal of this project was to gain experience using Flask and building data models via an Object Relational Mapper (ORM) by developing a website to help manage a catering company. I gained experience using HTML, CSS, Python, Flask, and SQLAlchemy.
Due to the academic integrity policies of CS 1520 (Programming Languages for Web Apps) and the University of Pittsburgh I am unable to share this code publicly. However, upon request, I will be more than happy to demo the project, explain how it works and how I implemented it.
Key Skills: Java, Spring Boot, Unit Testing, Project Management
The Cookbook Web App, crafted with React and Spring Boot, was born out of frustration with lengthy preambles in recipe sources. Its aim? To provide users with quick, straight-to-the-point cooking instructions. React ensures a responsive interface, while Spring Boot handles backend functionalities like data processing and user authentication. With this streamlined approach, users can swiftly access concise recipes without unnecessary narratives, simplifying their culinary experience.
As part of the project, I advocated for and strategically selected cutting-edge technologies in line with prevailing industry trends, including React for the frontend, Spring Boot for the backend, and MySQL for the database. Utilizing Java within the Spring Boot framework, I spearheaded the development of a robust backend service and API controller, implementing a variety of software design patterns to ensure scalability and maintainability. Rigorous testing was integral to our process, and I orchestrated comprehensive testing protocols, achieving a remarkable 100% code coverage using JUnit, thus adhering to stringent quality standards. Over a span of four months, I assumed leadership of a team comprising four members, guiding and coordinating efforts to successfully implement and thoroughly test the full-stack application.
Key Skills: Dart, Flutter, UX Design, Mobile Development
The application was designed as a part of the Interface Design Course I took and it's purpose was brought upon by a frustration that when doing laundry at the University of Pittsburgh I had to pull out my phone, go to a website that could only be accessed through 4 clicks, and then fill in all my credit card information just to have money on my card to do laundry. It wa frustrating, so I took inspriation from a variety of sources that have facilitated loading currency onto company currency like Starbucks, Dave and Busters, and Dunkin.
The application was constructed utilizing the Flutter programming framework. Our primary objective was to conceptualize an app idea, sketch its design using Balsamiq Wireframes, and then bring it to life through implementation with Flutter. The project unfolded across five distinct phases, each intricately connected to the design life cycle, ensuring a comprehensive approach to development.
Games
Key Skills: Godot Engine, Rhythm Game, Project Management
It's a captivating game featuring an immortal horticulturist dedicated to nurturing their community. With a core focus on environmental advocacy and community involvement, it earned the prestigious "Judge's Choice" Award at Pitt Games 4 Social Impact Game Jam 2023, and can be played on itch.io.
In my role, I spearheaded the design and implementation of key game elements, including the central gameplay loop and an engaging rhythm mini-game. Guiding a talented team of five, we collaborated intensively over a two-day period to bring this vision to life using the powerful Godot Game Engine.
Key Skills: Twine Engine, Story Writing
An immersive narrative game developed within the Twine engine, drawing inspiration from Karel Čapek's seminal work, "R.U.R.," and the perennial question: "What does it mean to be human?" Set in the evocative backdrop of the 23rd century, players step into the shoes of an engineer employed at Rossum Corp., a cutting-edge technological conglomerate pioneering advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics.
players navigate through the game, they are confronted with a myriad of choices that shape the destiny of their character and the unfolding narrative. From navigating ethical dilemmas in the development of sentient AI to grappling with the complexities of human-machine interaction, each decision resonates deeply within the game's richly textured world.
Key Skills: Twine Engine, Story Writing
A game that invites players to embark on an enigmatic journey within the confines of a mysterious apartment building, drawing inspiration from Karel Čapek's seminal work, "R.U.R." Set against the backdrop of a sprawling metropolis, players assume the role of a curious inhabitant navigating through the labyrinthine corridors and interconnected lives of the building's residents.
As players progress through the game, they unravel the complex tapestry of secrets, hidden agendas, and intertwined fates that lie concealed within the building's walls. Each choice made by the player peels back another layer of the narrative, revealing startling truths and unforeseen consequences.
Key Skills: JavaScript, HTML, CSS
A web-based implementation of the classic game Battleship. This project was the first assignment in my Programming Languages for Web Applications course at Pitt. The goal was gain experience building interactive web applications through the use of JavaScript and the Document Object Model (DOM). I wrote all of the source code used in the project. I gained experience using HTML, CSS, and Javascript.
Due to the academic integrity policies of CS 1520 (Programming Languages for Web Apps) and the University of Pittsburgh I am unable to share this code publicly. However, upon request, I will be more than happy to demo the project, explain how it works and how I implemented it.