Overview
Developed a team-matching web app to help students find project partners at hackathons and in classrooms. Built full-stack application using React, Next.js, TypeScript, and Firebase with GPT API integration to parse user survey responses and suggest compatible teams based on interests and goals.
Technical Contributions
Implemented authentication, data storage, and real-time updates using Firebase and React-Firebase-Hooks. Integrated ChatGPT API for survey response analysis and team recommendations. Deployed functional prototype on Vercel.
Funding & Outcome
Secured $1,000 grant from Babson College. Conducted user testing but did not launch publicly. Project concluded after 3 months when team goals diverged.
Key Learning
Experienced firsthand how misaligned goals and communication gaps can derail early-stage projects, regardless of technical execution. A functional product doesn't matter if the team isn't aligned on vision and next steps.