Avital Palchik

Full-Stack Developer & Frontend Specialist

Systems Design Engineering @ UWaterloo

Hi! I'm Avital, a passionate developer focused on creating engaging web experiences. Feel free to navigate around, and don't forget to try out the game mode for a fun twist on the usual browsing experience!

A bit about me: I'm currently in my fifth co-op term at the University of Waterloo, studying Systems Design Engineering. I'm passionate about working with and improving UI, learning new technologies, and developing reusable code architecture.

To keep the rest brief:

→4+ years with ReactJS, Next.js, and Node.js
→4+ years with TypeScript, JavaScript, HTML, CSS
→3+ years with Python, C++
→Highly familiar with RESTful APIs, TailwindCSS, Git, Agile workflows
→Comfortable with Figma, Photoshop, and UI/UX design principles
→Actively expanding backend & machine learning experience

About Me

I enjoy building thoughtful, interactive web experiences with a strong focus on frontend development. Currently in my fifth co-op term and graduating soon, I’ve spent the last few years working with React, TypeScript, and modern web tools.

User-Centered Engineering

I like building interfaces that feel clear, responsive, and easy to use. My goal is always to turn real user needs into clean, scalable UI that works well across devices.

✓My Approach to UI/UX

→Building reusable, maintainable components that grow with the product
→Keeping accessibility, usability, and visual clarity in mind from the start
→Thinking about performance early instead of treating it as a last step

Learning by Building

I approach frontend work with a full-stack mindset. Having experience with backend systems helps me build frontend features that are more reliable, efficient, and easier to maintain.

✓What I Bring to the Table

→Hands-on experience with React, Next.js, TypeScript, HTML, CSS, and modern JavaScript
→Backend exposure using Node.js, Python, C++, and RESTful APIs
→A strong habit of using version control, writing clear documentation, and testing my work

Product Mindset

I don’t just focus on writing code: I like understanding the bigger picture. Working closely with designers and other developers helps me ship features that make sense for everyone.

✓How I Work

→Turning designs and product ideas into polished, production-ready UI
→Writing clean, readable code that’s easy to pick up and iterate on
→Learning from feedback and continuously improving both the code and the user experience

Projects

Here are a few highlights of my work. For more details, check out my GitHub →

Gamified Website↗

This is what you're looking at now if you're on a larger screen! A pixel-art style website featuring an interactive game, built using React, Next.js, and Phaser.js to showcase reusable components, game logic, and responsive design

⚙️ Tech Stack

ReactNext.jsTypeScriptPhaser.jsTailwind CSSHTML

UW Baja SAE↗

I took on the role of Lead Frontend Developer for our design team's website redesign, focusing on responsive UI, reusable components, and ease of use. I also integrated EmailJS for seamless contact form functionality, and Netlify for deployment and domain management.

⚙️ Tech Stack

ReactTypeScriptTailwind CSSHTMLFigmaEmailJSNetlify

Intro to Machine Learning↗

During Fall 2025, I completed a Study Abroad term in Madrid, Spain. There, I took a course on Machine Learning, where I built projects using Python and popular ML libraries.

⚙️ Tech Stack

Pythonscikit-learnPandasNumPyMatplotlibJupyter NotebooksStreamlit

What else is there to know?

🎨

I've saved over 4,200 songs on Spotify

➜

You'll find me wearing earbuds a lot, especially on campus. I'm always looking for new music, so if you have any recommendations, send them my way!

Click to discover...

💡

I can solve a Rubik's Cube in under a minute

➜

I've been practicing speedcubing for a few years now and can consistently solve the cube in under a minute. It's a fun way to challenge my problem-solving skills :]

Click to discover...

🎭

I'm a big fan of maintaining my hobbies

➜

Whether it be playing hockey, chess, or video games, I always make time for the activities I enjoy. Next up: improving my drawing skills.

Click to discover...

🌟

I just spent 4 months studying abroad in Spain

➜

I've been fortunate enough to travel to several countries, but studying in Madrid was a unique experience that allowed me to immerse myself in a new culture while continuing my education. Just don't ask about my Spanish skills, no son buenos :P

Click to discover...