NATALIE

CRAWFORD

Creative IndividualFront-End Engineer

I’m a creative individual passionate about building intuitive, user-centered digital experiences. With a background in computer science and software engineering as well as a lifetime of creativity, I am eager about design and human centered engineering. This portfolio showcases my whole journey, and a lot went into developing it. To learn more about this development process, see the "This Portfolio" page in Projects. Click on the stamps above to learn more about my global adventures, or check out my projects, work experience, skills, education, and artistic expression below.

Artistic Expression

Dance

I grew up dancing, spending 16 years at my local studio, The Dance Dept, where I trained and competed across styles including jazz, contemporary, hip hop, ballet, and lyrical. Interpreting the feeling of the music, experimenting with movement, and expressing emotions physically gave me an outlet for creativity. It was through dance that I learned how movement can tell stories, convey emotion, and transform ideas into art.

Projects

LearnLink

Senior Design Capstone & Honors Thesis Project

LearnLink is a web-based platform built to make forming and managing study groups in large, fast-paced courses simple and effective. With smart matching, easy scheduling, and real-time communication, it helps students find the right peers, stay organized, and build community.

This Portfolio

Self-Designed & Developed

This portfolio is more than a website. It’s a reflection of my life, my travels, and a lifelong dedication to creativity. Built with Next.js, React, and Tailwind CSS, and brought to life with Framer Motion animations and custom Canva artwork, it showcases both my technical skills and my personal story.

Redesign of 25Live

HCI Design Alternatives Project

We redesigned 25Live, the platform for student event scheduling, to make it clearer, simpler, and more consistent. By applying HCI principles and iterating through user feedback, we transformed a cluttered and confusing system into a streamlined, user-friendly prototype.

Camp System

Software Engineering Course Project

The Camp System started as a console app and was later expanded into an online prototype for managing campers, staff, and activities. Using JSON for data storage and exchange, it demonstrated how a simple backend-driven system could evolve into a more accessible web-based tool.

Work & Tech Experience

929 Kitchen & Bar

Server

At 929 Kitchen and Bar, I served in a fast-paced, busy restaurant where I often balanced the needs of up to ten tables at once while managing customer needs and directing the flow of the dining experience. I worked to maintain both employee and customer satisfaction in a high-pressure environment, demonstrating strong multitasking skills and the ability to handle many responsibilities simultaneously.

Restaurant Industry
Server
Multitasking
Jan 2023 - Present

929 Kitchen & Bar Instagram

MOA Korean BBQ

Server

I managed the unique responsibility of cooking for guests at their tables, often overseeing multiple grills at once in a fast-paced environment. This required careful attention to timing and detail to ensure food was prepared correctly, while simultaneously maintaining strong customer service and balancing the needs of several tables at the same time. The role sharpened my multitasking abilities, strengthened my ability to perform under pressure, and taught me how to create a positive experience.

Customer Service
Teamwork
Fast-Paced
Sep 2023 - Feb 2025

MOA Korean BBQ & Bar - Columbia Instagram

Capgemini

Intern, MS Azure Technology, Smart Herb Garden

I developed a cutting-edge Smart Herb Garden web application using React and Azure technologies, strengthening my skills in both Azure DevOps and Azure Cloud. In this role, I designed and assisted in building a user-friendly interface, created detailed UI mockups, and collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure the seamless integration of features into the application.

Full Stack
Front End
Consulting
Mar 2023 - Jan 2024

USC CHAARG

Treasurer

I managed the organization’s budget and bank accounts while collaborating with the executive team and national organization to ensure smooth operations and strong member engagement. I successfully organized social events and hosted a well-attended Semi-Formal, showcasing my ability to handle financial responsibilities while creating meaningful experiences for members. In addition, I led small groups on a weekly basis, fostering community and encouraging member participation.

Leadership
Finance
Organization
May 2022 - Dec 2023

1801 Grille

Host

I created a welcoming environment for guests by managing reservations, seating arrangements, and guest inquiries, while coordinating with staff to ensure a seamless dining experience. I maintained the cleanliness and ambiance of the front-of-house area and provided exceptional customer service to enhance overall guest satisfaction.

Restaurant Industry
Balance
Planning
Jun 2022 - Dec 2022

University of South Carolina

Data Science Software Developer Research Assistant

I strengthened my programming skills in JavaScript and deepened my understanding of Python by developing innovative algorithms for topic modeling and data visualization projects. Working remotely, I maintained a consistent schedule, averaging 20 hours per week during the academic year and 31 hours per week during the summer, demonstrating both technical expertise and dedication to the role.

Data Science
Research
Python
Topic Modeling
Feb 2022 - Aug 2022

Pelican's SnoBalls

Snoballer

I assisted in creating high-quality frozen treats while delivering excellent customer service in a fast-paced environment. I worked 20 hours per week during the school year and up to 50 hours per week in the summer, developing strong teamwork and communication skills while contributing to the overall success of the business and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Cashier
Customer Service
Responsibility
May 2020 - Aug 2022

Dance Department

Dance Instructor Assistant

I helped create an engaging and supportive environment for students by leading warm-ups, assisting in teaching choreography, and helping manage groups of children during class. In this role, I developed strong leadership and communication skills while balancing patience and enthusiasm to keep students motivated and focused. My contributions ensured that classes ran smoothly and that students had a positive and productive learning experience.

Instructor
Choreography
Leadership
Aug 2018 - May 2020

Natalie Crawford