My Journey Begins
As an apprentice developer at Liip, I recently had the incredible opportunity to attend a regional championship through my school. This championship was not just a competition but a chance to broaden my horizons, face new challenges, and improve my skills as a developer.
Motivation and Preparation
My motivation to attend the event stemmed from my consistent academic performance. With good grades under my belt, I was eager to measure my skills against the best in Zurich. While aiming for first place, I realistically expected to secure at least third.
What surprised me was the level of guidance and resources available. Access to previous championship exams and their solutions significantly aided my preparation.
Support System
Team spirit was high within the fusion circle. Colleagues and fellow developers at Liip were all rooting for me. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and many took time out of their busy schedules to mentor me. Their support, especially during the final week before the championship, was invaluable.
The Championship Day
On the day of the championship, I woke up feeling both nervous and excited. Arriving at the venue, I set up my laptop, ready for any challenge. The format allowed us to use our own devices, adding a layer of comfort to an otherwise high-pressure scenario.
The main task focused on JavaScript algorithms, an area I feel confident in. Initially, I accumulated about 40% of the pointsāa solid start, but it required more effort for a win. Unfortunately, a miscalculated switch to backend questions disrupted my focus, costing me precious time. I quickly reverted to frontend tasks and spent the final 30 minutes solidifying my answers.
Results and Reflection
After submitting my work, I interacted with other competitors to gauge their performance. To my astonishment, the person I deemed my toughest competitor placed second, while I took first place in Zurich!
Nationally, the competition was fierce, and I finished third overall. The first-place winner was a fellow Liip apprentice from Bern, only a year ahead of me. Reflecting on the experience, I realized that avoiding the backend switch might have secured me second place nationally.
Recognition and Future Prospects
Winning the regional championship came with rewards and recognition. I was invited to the U25 IT group, which brings together talented individuals under 25 from the IT sector. We received certificates, exclusive plushies and Digitec vouchers. The event concluded with an invitation to join the U25 group permanently, promising future meetings and networking opportunities.
Looking Ahead
I'm thrilled with my achievements and motivated to aim for the national championship next summer. This experience not only validated my skills but also highlighted areas for improvement and growth.