Ivan Stadnik

Ivan Stadnik

Looking for Full-Time Backend Software Engineering Opportunities

Building applications that save time and cut costs

View My Work

Education

B.S. in Computer Science
Rutgers University • May 2025

100‑level

  • Intro Computer Sci (198:111)
  • Data Structures (198:112)
  • Data 101: Data Literacy (198:142)

200‑level

  • Intr Discret Struct I (198:205)
  • Introduction to Discrete Structures II (198:206)
  • Data Mgmt for Datasc (198:210)
  • Computer Architecture (198:211)
  • Software Methodology (198:213)
  • Statistical Inference for Data Science (960:291)

300‑level

  • Data Sci Capstn Proj (198:310)
  • Prin Info & Data Mgt (198:336)
  • Dsgn&Anal Comp Algor (198:344)
  • Internet Technology (198:352)
  • Prin Prog Languages (198:314)

400‑level

  • Computer Security (198:419)
  • Intro Data Science (198:439)
  • Intro Artificial Intell (198:440)
  • Regression Methods (960:463)
M.S. in Computer Science (OMSCS)
Georgia Tech • Starting Spring 2026

Skills

Languages

Python Java SQL

AI/ML

RAG Vector Search LLMs Embeddings Pinecone Vector Database

Backend

REST APIs Flask Express.js

Databases

MongoDB MySQL PostgreSQL

Data/ETL

Pandas Selenium

Tools

Git Docker

Certificates

AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Rutgers Data Science Certificate

My Projects

RUequivalent

An AI-powered course search platform that has two core features: semantic search that understands search meaning rather than just keywords (unlike the current Rutgers course search system), and course equivalency discovery that shows the nearest transferable courses from over 240,000 course equivalencies from New Jersey's community colleges. This saves users 10+ minutes of research time they would otherwise spend searching on the NJ Transfer website.

RUCourseFinder screenshot
Python FastAPI Pandas RAG Pinecone text-embedding-004

RUPreReq

RUPreReq is a web-based tool designed to help Rutgers University students easily identify and plan for course prerequisites. It simplifies academic planning by visually mapping out prerequisite chains across 150+ Rutgers subjects, showing which courses are required before enrolling in a desired class. Overall, RUPreReq empowers students to make informed decisions and streamline their path to graduation.

RUPreReq screenshot
Python Pandas

RUHelp

RUHelp is a chatbot designed to assist students by answering questions about courses, degree requirements, university policies, and other academic information at Rutgers University. It leverages Retrieval‑Augmented Generation (RAG) to provide accurate, context‑aware responses grounded in Rutgers catalog data. It's like having an academic advisor at your fingertips.

RUHelp screenshot
RAG Python Flask Gemini Flash 1.5 API Pinecone text-embedding-004

Experience Timeline

Spring 2026
Georgia Tech CS Masters
  • Starting a part-time CS Master's program while working full-time
July–August 2025
Summer Springboard - Mentor
  • Led interactive sessions on college readiness and career exploration for groups of 10–20 high school students at Duke University and UC San Diego
  • Delivered individualized mentorship to students, supporting their academic goals and contributing to improved decision-making
May–Jun 2025
Cognizant - Generative AI Extern
  • Selected for competitive Generative AI Externship focused on Python programming, LLMs, and real-world AI applications
  • Developed GenAI solutions using prompt engineering and ethical AI practices, progressing toward Cognizant Skills Accelerator badges in Python and Generative AI
May 2025
Graduated from Rutgers University
  • Graduated with Bachelor's in Computer Science and a Certificate in Data Science
Sep–Oct 2024
aiRESULTS - Software Engineer Intern
  • Engineered microservices-based RESTful API for Customer Loyalty System using Go, MongoDB, and Docker
  • Architected API endpoints and data pipelines for future TensorFlow ML model integration, enabling predictive insights into customer behavior and ROI
Aug–Sep 2024
SilkyAI - Software Engineer Intern
  • Architected cost-efficient web platform for AI-powered recipe suggestions using Gemini Flash 1.5 and Spoonacular API
  • Built comprehensive inventory tracking, meal planning features, and RESTful API with MongoDB for user profiles and dietary preferences
Jun–Aug 2024
CodePath - Apprenticeship (Member)
  • Completed an intensive program in algorithms, data structures, and technical problem‑solving, mastering common coding patterns
  • Enhanced leadership and communication skills by helping facilitate biweekly sessions solving coding problems
Feb–Apr 2023
Rutgers Blueprint - Backend Software Engineering Fellow
  • Selected from hundreds of applicants to join a cohort of approximately 20 fellows
  • Gained hands‑on experience with HTTP request/response protocols, RESTful APIs, web sockets, and user authentication mechanisms, enhancing secure client‑server communication
2023-2025
HackRU Awards
  • Won multiple hackathon awards for innovative projects
2021-2025
Rutgers CS Program
  • Started studying in Computer Science with a focus on AI, data science, and software engineering

Awards & Recognition

Best iCMS Hack
Issued by HackRU
Feb 2025
Best Productivity Hack
Issued by HackRU
Oct 2024
Best Use of NJ Transit Data
Issued by HackRU
Oct 2023

Hobbies

🥊

Watching UFC

I enjoy watching the strategy, hard work, and discipline from the highest‑level martial art athletes.

🏀

Playing Basketball

Pick‑up games are a fun way of doing cardio and improving my skills. I also enjoy the teamwork and the competitiveness of basketball.

🏋️‍♂️

Lifting

I train consistently, focusing on strength.

🌅

Beautiful Views

I love unwinding outdoors and taking in sunsets and scenic trails.

Let's Work Together

I'm always interested in new opportunities and collaborations. Whether you have a project in mind or just want to connect, I'd love to hear from you!