Frequently Asked Questions

I'm seeking roles such as Software Engineer, Full-Stack Developer, Backend Engineer, or AI Engineer — especially positions focused on building scalable applications, AI-driven features, and workflow automation.

As a first-generation immigrant, I had to rebuild my path in a new country. I began by teaching myself through online programming courses, which led me to a front-end bootcamp (React, JavaScript, HTML/CSS) and later a Java Full-Stack bootcamp where I learned Java, Spring Boot, REST APIs, SQL, and MySQL.

Building projects helped me discover how much I enjoy backend logic and system design, so I continued growing through Year Up's IT track and Arizona State University's Vibe Coding AI Builder Architect Program, where I learned to build AI-powered applications using Python, FastAPI, Next.js, LangChain, LangGraph, and AWS Bedrock.

My transition into tech has been a step-by-step journey of continuous learning, persistence, embracing new tools with confidence, and believing in my ability to grow.

I've completed several structured training programs that shaped my technical foundation and professional growth:

• ASU Vibe Coding – AI Builder Architect Program
• Python, Next.js, FastAPI, LangChain, LangGraph, AWS Bedrock, n8n automation
• Per Scholas – Java Full-Stack Development
• Java, Spring, Spring Boot, SQL, ORM, API development
• Solely Coding Bootcamp – Front-End Development
• React, JavaScript, modern UI fundamentals
• Year Up – IT Support + Professional Skills Program
• IT fundamentals, troubleshooting, communication, workplace readiness

These programs strengthened my full-stack development skills and gave me hands-on experience building AI-powered applications and workflows using modern engineering tools and best practices.

I've worked on a diverse mix of full-stack and AI-powered projects, including: A JobPortal platform with AI-assisted candidate matching (team project), Vitality Hub fitness tracking application with Spring Boot and React, an e-commerce eyewear store using React and Redux, and a travel agency website built with web fundamentals. Each project demonstrates different aspects of my technical skills, from database design to AI integration.

Moving between countries and careers has trained me to adapt quickly, pay attention to cultural differences, and stay humble and curious. I'm used to being the person who has to catch up, and that pushes me to prepare thoroughly, listen carefully, and follow through. I bring empathy for users, persistence in debugging, and a growth mindset to every project. My multilingual abilities (fluent in English and Mandarin) and cross-cultural experience also help me collaborate effectively in diverse teams.

I'm excited to dive deeper into agentic AI, workflow automation, and tools like LangGraph that enable multiple AI agents to work together. I also want to keep strengthening my core engineering skills, especially system design and scalable backend development.

I'm fluent in both English and Chinese (Mandarin), which allows me to work effectively in multicultural environments and communicate with diverse teams.

In my free time, I enjoy watching live music performances, reading, and baking delicious breads and desserts—Focaccia bread and Tiramisu are my favorites! I stay active through hiking, swimming, traveling, and practicing yoga. I also take a pottery class weekly and really enjoy creating and building things with my hands.

This portfolio is more than a collection of projects—it's a snapshot of my journey. I built it to share my work, my story, and my growth as a developer and AI builder. I also wanted a space where I could keep adding new conferences, hackathons, and learning experiences as I continue to move forward in my career.

You can reach me through the contact form on this website, connect with me on LinkedIn, check out my projects on GitHub, or email me directly at graceli9095@gmail.com. I'm always open to discussing new opportunities, collaborations, or just connecting with fellow developers!

I was born and raised in China. After finishing college, I spent a gap year in Australia, where I learned to communicate and work in English. I later moved to the United States, and each move shaped my perspective, resilience, and path into tech. The U.S. has since become my second home—the place where I rebuilt my career in technology.