By: Nahuel Albayrak
Introduction
For the past 2 summers I worked on an independent project aimed at tackling a significant challenge on campus organizing student events on campus. With a background in software development and a strong drive to create meaningful solutions, I was determined to develop an event organization software application that would make it easier for students to connect and participate in campus activities. This project allowed me to not only continue to advance my technical skills but also contribute to the broader goal of improving student experience on campus. I established clear Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) to guide my work. These OKRs were designed to keep me focused on delivering my goals/product while also focusing on my personal and professional growth. Through these objectives, I was able to stay on track, overcome challenges, and make advancements on the product I am working on
Key Experiences
Throughout the summer, my primary focus was on designing, developing, and testing the software. The initial design phase was completed on schedule by July 15, and I successfully developed and tested the core functionalities, including user authentication, event tracking, and real time notifications. This allowed me to stay on track for the upcoming milestones/ One of the most rewarding experiences during this project was seeing the core functionalities come to life. Implementing user authentication and real-time notifications required me to dive deep into both front end and back end development, pushing me to expand my knowledge of full stack development. I also implemented event tracking features that allowed users to RSVP and receive updates on campus events in real time. These features not only provided valuable functionality but also enhanced my understanding of user experience design. One of the key obstacles I encountered was integrating third party APIs, which delayed certain aspects of the development process. I underestimated the complexity of these integrations, which led to some unexpected setbacks. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability and problem-solving in software development.
Skills and Knowledge Gained
This project significantly enhanced my software development capabilities, particularly in areas such as project management, user centered design, and real time system development. I also deepened my understanding of API integration, a skill that proved crucial in ensuring the smoothoperation of the software. These workarounds not only strengthened my technical abilities but also taught me the importance of persistence and creativity in solving complex problems. In addition to technical skills, I gained valuable soft skills, such as time management and problem solving, by balancing multiple responsibilities. Managing the project timeline while ensuring the quality of the work required me to stay organized and disciplined. I learned to break down large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and to set realistic deadlines for each phase of the project. This approach not only helped me stay on track but also reduced stress and made the project more enjoyable. The overall experience of working on this independent project has made me more confident in my ability to lead and manage software development projects in the future. The skills and knowledge I gained will undoubtedly serve me well as I continue to pursue a career in software development. If that happens to be for a company of my own, or for any job as a whole.
Impact of OKRs
The OKRs I set at the beginning of the project played a vital role in guiding my progress. By focusing on clear and achievable key results, I was able to maintain a strong sense of direction throughout the project. The reflection on my OKRs also highlighted the importance of flexibility and adaptability. When I encountered difficulties with API integration, I adjusted my timeline and approach to ensure that the project continued to move forward. One of the most significant impacts of the OKRs was how they helped me align my work with my long term career goals. By setting objectives that focused not only on the technical aspects of the project but also on my personal development, I was able to make meaningful progress in both areas. The experience reinforced the value of setting clear, measurable goals and regularly reflecting on my progress.
Lessons Learned
Another key takeaway was the value of networking and leveraging connections. A conversation I had with a JHU alumni, a consultant in the medical field reinforced this lesson. He emphasized the importance of building and maintaining professional networks, particularly through alumni and fraternity connections. His advice on staying updated with industry trends and seeking continuous learning opportunities has inspired me to be proactive in expanding my professional network and pursuing further development. His insights were particularly valuable as I considered the long term impact of this project on my career and most importantly the students, the overall effect I can have on people. He discussed the growing demand for technology integration in various industries, including healthcare, and the importance of data driven decision making. This conversation has opened my eyes to new possibilities for applying my software development skills in different sectors, and I am excited to explore these opportunities further.
Future Applications
Looking ahead, I plan to apply the skills and knowledge I gained from this project to future endeavors. Whether it’s developing new software applications or contributing to innovative solutions in a professional setting, the experience has equipped me with the tools I need to succeed. I also intend to continue building my professional network, as advised… In the long term, I aim to use the experience and lessons learned from this project to drive my career forward, particularly in roles that allow me to leverage my strengths in software development and user experience design. I am also considering pursuing opportunities in sectors such as healthcare, where technology plays a crucial role in driving innovation and improving outcomes. This project has inspired me to continue exploring ways to use technology to solve problems as a number one priority. Whether it’s through developing new applications, contributing to open source projects, or collaborating with others in the tech community, I am committed to making a positive impact through my work.
Conclusion
My independent project this summer was a significant milestone in my journey as a software developer. By setting clear objectives, overcoming challenges, and staying focused on my goals, I was able to create a valuable tool for student engagement while also enhancing my own skills and professional network. I am excited to apply what I’ve learned to future projects and career opportunities, continuing to grow both personally and professionally. The experience has not only solidified my passion for software development but also provided me with a clearer sense of direction for my career. I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked on this project and for the insights and connections it has brought into my life. As I continue on my journey, I look forward to building on this foundation and making meaningful contributions to the field of technology.