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Rachel Pavilanis
Software Engineer at Leafly
Professional Background
Rachel Pavilanis is an accomplished software engineer with a versatile background that spans both technology and psychology. After making a significant career transition from school psychology to software engineering, Rachel now brings her unique perspective and expertise to the tech industry. Currently, she is making waves as a software engineer at Leafly, where her skills in full-stack web development contribute to innovative solutions for the cannabis industry.
Before her role at Leafly, Rachel spent time at Avvo, a leading platform that connects consumers with lawyers and provides valuable legal resources. At Avvo, she not only honed her technical skills during her tenure as a software engineer but also gained invaluable experience as an intern, which laid the foundation for her professional growth in software development. Her journey started with a strong focus on web technologies, which she embraced during her studies at the Ada Developers Academy.
Rachel's previous experience in school psychology has also greatly influenced her approach to engineering. For five years, she served as a school psychologist, where she provided essential support in educational settings and played critical roles such as Positive Behavior Interventions and Support Coach and Preschool Transition Coordinator. This rich background contributes to her empathetic approach to software design, valuing user experience, and understanding the psychological aspects of user interactions.
Education and Achievements
Rachel's educational background is both impressive and diversified. She began her academic journey at Colorado College, where she studied English Language and Literature, General. This early exposure to language and literature provided her with a solid foundation in critical thinking and communication skills. Following her passion for psychology, she pursued a Bachelor of Science in Psychology & French at Western Michigan University, where she developed a keen understanding of human behavior and cognitive processes.
After completing her undergraduate degree, Rachel continued her studies at the University of Oregon, where she earned a Master of Science (MS) in School Psychology. Her time in graduate school equipped her with the skills necessary to provide support to students in educational settings, helping her understand the importance of mental health and well-being in learning environments.
To further her technical career, Rachel attended the Ada Developers Academy, an esteemed coding boot camp based in Seattle, focused on empowering women and gender-diverse individuals to enter the tech field. There, she undertook a comprehensive program in Full Stack Web Development and Computer Science, which prepared her for her successful transition into software engineering.
Achievements
Rachel Pavilanis has demonstrated a remarkable ability to thrive in varied roles and industries. Not only has she successfully transitioned from school psychology to software engineering, but she has also applied her insights into human behavior to enhance user-centric design in the digital products she develops. Her work at Avvo and Leafly has involved the use of cutting-edge technologies and methodologies that underscore her commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
By embracing her key role in software projects, Rachel has developed robust applications that align with user needs while also adhering to industry best practices in coding and design. Her time as a WordPress Designer at Doug Clark Creative and Capture Me Films showcases her creative talents, allowing her to combine technical skills with artistic vision. In each of her roles, she has demonstrated adaptability and a strong commitment to delivering quality results, positioning herself as an asset to any team.
Rachel Pavilanis's career trajectory is a testament to her dedication to understanding both technology and the human experience. As she continues to evolve in her field, her blend of psychological insight and technical expertise promises exciting innovations in the world of software development.
