Technologies Used
Project Overview
StudyBuddy is a secure study networking platform designed specifically for UCLA students, featuring encrypted real-time chat, study group formation, and Google OAuth authentication. Built as a team project with 4 UCLA students, the platform prioritizes security and user experience while providing seamless academic collaboration tools.
The platform addresses the challenge of finding reliable study partners at UCLA by creating a trusted community where only verified students can participate, ensuring academic integrity and safety.
Key Features
Secure Authentication System
Google OAuth 2.0 Integration
The authentication system ensures that only verified UCLA students can access the platform, maintaining a trusted academic community. The login process is streamlined and secure, providing users with confidence in the platform's safety measures.
Security Features:
- UCLA email domain verification (@g.ucla.edu)
- Secure token management with automatic refresh
- Session management and automatic logout
- Protection against unauthorized access attempts
Real-Time Chat Functionality
Encrypted Messaging System
The chat system utilizes WebSockets for real-time communication and Bcrypt for message encryption, ensuring that student conversations remain private and secure. The interface is intuitive and responsive, supporting both one-on-one and group conversations.
Technical Implementation:
- WebSocket connections for instant messaging
- Message encryption using Bcrypt hashing
- Persistent chat history in MongoDB
- Real-time typing indicators and read receipts
User Experience:
- Intuitive chat interface with emoji support
- File sharing capabilities for study materials
- Notification system for new messages
- Mobile-optimized chat experience
Study Group Formation
Intelligent Matching System
The platform features a sophisticated matching algorithm that connects students based on shared courses, compatible schedules, and academic interests. This ensures that study groups are both productive and convenient for all participants.
Matching Criteria:
- Course enrollment verification
- Schedule compatibility analysis
- Academic performance alignment
- Study preference matching (library, online, etc.)
Technical Architecture
MERN Stack Implementation
StudyBuddy leverages the full MERN stack (MongoDB, Express, React, Node.js) to deliver a robust, scalable platform. Each component is optimized for performance and security.
Backend Architecture:
- Node.js & Express: RESTful API with authentication middleware
- MongoDB: Flexible document storage for user profiles and messages
- WebSockets: Real-time communication infrastructure
- Bcrypt: Password hashing and message encryption
Frontend Implementation:
- React: Component-based UI with state management
- Responsive Design: Mobile-first approach with CSS Grid
- Real-time Updates: WebSocket integration for live chat
- OAuth Integration: Seamless Google authentication flow
Team Collaboration & Results
Project Success Metrics
Collaborative Development Process
Working with a team of 4 UCLA students, we successfully delivered a full-stack solution from concept to deployment. The project demonstrated effective teamwork, version control practices, and coordinated development across frontend and backend components.
Team Responsibilities:
- Frontend React development and UI/UX design
- Backend API development and database design
- Authentication system implementation
- Real-time chat infrastructure
Development Practices:
- Git version control with feature branching
- Code reviews and pair programming sessions
- Agile development with weekly sprints
- Comprehensive testing and debugging
Learning Outcomes
Technical Skills
- Full-Stack Development: End-to-end MERN stack implementation
- Real-Time Systems: WebSocket integration for live chat
- Security Implementation: OAuth and encryption best practices
- Database Design: NoSQL schema design and optimization
Professional Development
- Team Collaboration: Effective communication in development teams
- Project Management: Agile methodologies and sprint planning
- Code Quality: Version control and code review processes
- User-Centered Design: Building features based on user needs
StudyBuddy successfully demonstrates the intersection of security, user experience, and real-time communication in modern web applications. The project showcased our ability to work effectively as a team while delivering a production-quality platform that addresses real student needs at UCLA.