
Yanzhen Chen
Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics Student
University of Toronto student passionate about software development, machine learning, and creating innovative solutions.
About Me
I'm a Computer Science Major at the University of Toronto with minors in Mathematics and Statistics. I have a strong foundation in programming principles and a passion for building efficient, user-friendly applications.
My academic journey combines mathematical rigor with practical software development skills. I'm particularly interested in data science, web development, and creating innovative solutions that solve real-world problems.
Outside of academics, I'm actively involved in the Computer Science Student Union as Vice President of External Relations, where I secure sponsorships and organize events to enhance professional development opportunities for students.
I'm currently seeking internship opportunities where I can apply my skills in software development, data analysis, and project management to contribute to meaningful projects.
Projects
Skills and Technologies
Languages
Frameworks & Libraries
Developer Tools
Education

Relevant Coursework:
- CSC494: Computer Science Project: IQBank
- CSC490: Capstone Project: Machine Learning Engineering
- CSC485: Computational Linguistics
- CSC413: Neural Networks and Deep Learning
- CSC384: Intro to Artificial Intelligence
- CSC373: Advanced Algorithms
- CSC369: Operating Systems
- CSC343: Introduction to Databases
- CSC311: Intro to Machine Learning
- CSC309: Programming on the Web
- CSC263: Data Structures and Analysis
- CSC258: Computer Organization
- CSC209: Software Tools and Systems Programming
- CSC207: Software Design
- CSC165: Mathematical Expression and Reasoning for Computer Science
- CSC148: Introduction to Computer Science
- CSC108: Introduction to Computer Programming
Experience

- Developing and maintaining production-grade frontend features for an exam preparation platform under the supervision of Prof. Jack Sun, using React to support question banks, practice flows, and discussions.
- Implementing data-driven UI flows by integrating REST APIs for question delivery, submissions, discussions, and study analytics, with robust handling of asynchronous state, loading, and error conditions.
- Contributing to frontend architecture decisions including component abstraction, state management patterns, and reusable UI primitives, enabling rapid iteration while maintaining long-term code quality and scalability.

- CSC165H1: Mathematical Expression and Reasoning for Computer Science - (Winter 2026)

- Developed digital learning platforms and UI/UX improvements for the PEY Co-op Hub, used by 5,000+ engineering PEY students, increasing content engagement by 25% through enhanced navigation and accessibility.
- Designed and implemented a structured process for Quercus shell creation, reducing setup time by 70% and identifying key inefficiencies in existing workflows.
- Established a reliable backup system for 10+ preparatory and co-op program shells, streamlining instructor workflows and reducing content recovery time by 90% despite automation limitations in Canvas.
- Earned an 8-month extension beyond the initial 4-month term in recognition of excellent performance.

- Built responsive UI components using React and Tailwind, improving frontend usability and reducing bounce rate.
- Optimized backend APIs with caching and async handlers, reducing load time by 30% for 500+ monthly users.
- Used GitHub Actions to build CI/CD pipelines for automated testing, linting, and production deployment.
- Wrote and maintained internal documentation for both frontend components and backend API usage to ensure long-term maintainability and team onboarding.
Leadership and Volunteer Experience

- Raised a total of $14,000 in sponsorships over two years by securing collaborations with 9 companies.
- Led a team of 3 associates to organize 8 professional development events, including information sessions, resume review panels, and networking mixers that connected over 700 students with industry representatives.
- Hosted 2 annual career fairs with cumulative attendance of over 1000 students, connecting them with employers for recruitment opportunities.

- The Fields Trip program gives schools across Ontario the chance to bring students to the Department of Mathematics for a 75-minute math workshop. These sessions introduce students to mathematical concepts not typically covered in the standard curriculum.
- As a workshop facilitator, I prepare lesson plans ahead of time and lead students through the chosen topic.
Contact Me
Location
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Availability
Open to internship opportunities and project collaborations