Code By Jose

Computer Science Undergraduate California State University of Fresno

Recent Projects

For Fresno State Student Housing, digital signage is used to display weekly menu information to residents. The digital menu, resembling a restaurant menu, is created using Figma for mockups and Adobe tools for design, with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and JSON for development. Menu items are stored and updated in JSON format, and the design is responsive for 16:9 TV screens. Challenges included ensuring readability and aesthetics on TV screens. Features include dynamic display of menu items, real-time updates, and a user-friendly layout that's visually appealing and easy to maintain.

Technical Skills

About Me

Hello! I'm Jose Cortes, currently in my final year studying Computer Science at California State University of Fresno. Over the course of my academic journey, I've sharpened my coding and debugging skills, delved deep into data structures and recursion, and nurtured a foundational understanding of theoretical computer science concepts. This blend of academics and hands-on experience has empowered me with proficiency in languages like C++, CSS, PHP, HTML, JS, and JSON.

Professionally, I've been serving as a Web Designer at Fresno State Student Housing. Here, I've tackled projects like the 'Dynamic Dining Hall Menu Integration' and 'Weekly Dining Hall Menu Updater', using my expertise to elevate user experience and optimize web pages.

When it comes to work, I enjoy problem-solving and creative projects that challenge me to think outside the box. Beyond the screen, the people in my life keep me grounded and motivated. When I'm not coding, I'm diving into 3D modeling, battling it out in Pokémon, trying my hand at embroidery, snapping photos, or just kicking back with some good music.

If you'd like to get in touch with me, you can find me on my socials, or you can send me an email or fill out the contact form at the bottom of this page.

Education

I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at California State University of Fresno and expect to graduate in Fall 2024.

Relevant Coursework:

CSCI 1 - Critical Thinking and Computer Science

In this course, I gained an overview of the field of computer science with a focus on critical thinking skills. I learned problem-solving strategies, algorithm design, and data abstraction, as well as gained an introduction to hardware and theoretical limitations of computers. Additionally, the course explored issues that arise from the growing role of computers in society. By taking this course, I developed critical thinking skills and an understanding of the impact of technology on society.

CSCI 40 - Introduction to Programming

In this course, I was introduced to problem solving and algorithm development using a high-level programming language. I learned about procedural and data abstraction, program design, coding, debugging, testing, and documentation. After taking this course, I had developed basic programming skills and was able to design and implement simple programs.

CSCI 41 - Introduction to Data Structures

This course built on the programming skills I developed in CSCI 40 and covered programming methodology, program correctness, and review of data types. The course focused on data structures such as linear and nonlinear structures, files, and recursion. I learned about searching and sorting, as well as implementation of data structures. By taking this course, I developed an understanding of fundamental data structures and the ability to design and implement more complex programs.

CSCI 60 - Foundations of Computer Science

In this course, I gained a foundation for further study in computer science. I learned about abstraction, iteration, induction, recursion, complexity of programs, data models, and logic. After taking this course, I had developed a strong theoretical understanding of computer science, which may help me to design more efficient and effective programs in the future.

CSCI 80 or 112 - Introduction to Computer Systems

This course provided me with an in-depth understanding of computer systems. It covered computer arithmetic, the Von Neumann architecture, and the intricacies of instruction sets, data types, and formats. I learned about the organization of registers, the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), and the memory hierarchy. The course also delved into I/O Bus organization and the study of assembly languages. Through this course, I developed a foundational knowledge of how higher-level languages are implemented on computer systems.

CSCI 115 - Algorithms and Data Structures

Building upon my previous knowledge of data structures, this course reviewed and expanded on this topic. It included in-depth studies of graphs, search paths, and spanning trees. I learned various methods for algorithm design and analysis, especially for sorting, merging, and searching algorithms. Key topics also included memory management, hashing, and dynamic storage allocation. This course was crucial in integrating my understanding of data structures into comprehensive system design.

CSCI 117 - Structures of Programming Languages

This course introduced me to the general concepts and paradigms of various programming languages. I explored different aspects such as scope, binding rules, applications, and implementations of language concepts. The course provided exposure to a range of languages including Haskell, Prolog, Kernel, and Oz. It greatly enhanced my understanding of the structural and functional differences between these languages and their practical applications.

Experience

Web Designer/ Developer with Fresno State Student Housing May 2023 - Present

As the Web Designer for Fresno State Student Housing, I play a critical role in enhancing the digital presence and user experience for our campus community. Under the direct supervision of the Marketing and Summer Conference Coordinator, my responsibilities are tailored to support the vibrant and dynamic environment of Student Housing through strategic web design and maintenance. My responsibilities include:

Overseeing the planning, development, and routine maintenance of the Student Housing website to align with marketing objectives and user expectations.
Designing and implementing user-friendly features and functionalities, focusing on the ease of navigation, interaction, and accessibility, to foster an engaging online experience.
Collaborating closely with the Student Housing and Marketing teams to ensure the website's content, usability, and design are up-to-date and reflect the brand's values and aesthetics.
Troubleshooting and resolving website operational issues, maintaining high performance and availability, and managing technical aspects of the CMS.
Enhancing the visual appeal and functionality of the website through graphic design, layout adjustments, and content updates.
Maintaining digital signage content, ensuring the information is current and visually appealing to enhance resident engagement.