Meet 3 ASSIST Tech Challenge Mentors

ASSIST Tech Challenge, organized by ASSIST Software, is a software development competition designed to push students' boundaries and equip them with skills that theoretical knowledge doesn't cover. Teams of 3–5 students with a mix of backend, frontend, and testing expertise compete to build a full-stack app within a thrilling three-week timeframe. The app's theme is kept under wraps until the competition's launch day, adding a layer of excitement and mystery to the challenge.

Throughout their development journey, teams receive guidance and support from dedicated ASSIST Software mentors who answer questions and offer expert advice. This collaborative environment fosters teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills, all crucial aspects of software development.

Paul has 8 years of experience as an engineer and is now working at ASSIST Software as the Head of JavaScript Technologies. Some students might already know him if they attended the ASSIST Masterclass, where Paul was a JavaScript trainer, or from other contests where he has been either a mentor or on the jury team. Now, at ASSIST Tech Challenge, he is one of the mentors ready to guide students through their innovation journey.

Q: What do you think is unique about the ASSIST Tech Challenge compared to other student competitions?

A: As a student, you have some specialists in the field who will be your mentors and who are willing to guide you to ensure that you learn correctly.

Q: What are your expectations from the teams that sign up?

A: Enthusiasm. That's my expectation. We will then help them realize their ideas.

Q: Do you have any advice for students entering the competition?

A: Don't overthink about "what will happen". With the help of mentors, you will create an application far above the level of online tutorials.

Coming from the Java Technologies department is Deputy Vlad Dediță, another ASSIST Academy trainer who participated in Masterclasses and other ASSIST Software professional development events. With Spring and Java 11 certifications and his enthusiasm for Quarkus, Vlad is undoubtedly one of the people the teams should be happy to have as a mentor, as he is ready to answer any questions they might have about clean code, refactoring, and succeeding in the software development industry.

Q: Can you identify advantages that students will have if they participate in the ASSIST Tech Challenge?

A: Students will participate in a competition that simulates the development of an actual product in a professional software development environment. They will be assigned mentors with daily contact with up-to-date development methodologies and the technologies most used in this field. To have such an opportunity in college is a chance not to be missed.

Q: Can you share a secret that might help students win?

A: Team cohesion and openness to feedback and learning are very important. The mentors will be with the teams every step of the way to offer support and guidance. It is up to the members of each team how much they will call on mentors or how open they will be to suggestions.

Q: Any other practical advice?

A: Restock coffee. Call on mentors as much as possible. I can't stress this enough. Call them even until you become annoying (mentors are not allowed to tell you this). You are here to learn, make the most of it, ask all the questions that come to mind, and have fun.

How long has Lucian been a developer for? 11 years. As an ASSIST Tech Challenge participant, you'd like to have this .NET developer on your side. You've surely met Lucian at one of the ASSIST Academy events organized in the past years. Not only did he co-host a C# Masterclass, but Lucian also participated and presented a panel at Open Doors ASSIST in front of hundreds of students. However, those who participated in last year's ASSIST Tech Challenge might have worked with him already.

Q: How would you define ASSIST Tech Challenge?

A: It's not just about the challenge or uniqueness. It's not just about the team or organization, the prize money, prestige, or gateway to the internship. It's about everything in one place; we (mentors) also discover something new every year. Best of all, it's a dev-job simulation condensed into 4 weeks. It's intense but worth it.

Q: What are your expectations from the teams that sign up?

A: I expect them to be smart. Since this is a contest, they should gather all the information from colleagues about what it has been like in past years. They can already know details about work style, organization, time-tracking, tickets, presentation, and features. I expect them not to be surprised that there will be no corner-cutting related to what must be done.  I recommend the movie "The Exam" (2009).

Q: Can you give some advice from the position of a returning mentor?

A: It's 4 intense weeks, but it's only 4 weeks. I would advise them to use all the tricks they know to withstand the challenge, physically and mentally. Results will be commensurate with the amount of work. The contest is not a midterm. It's not that style of learning. It's teamwork on a technical and organizational level. If I were to make an analogy with video games, I'd say that the ASSIST Tech Challenge is an" epic battle," but it's not the "boss battle"...not yet. Students have us, the mentors, as help; we are here to help and answer questions. Students should make use of it.

You might find that it's a blend of factors. The challenge can ignite a great passion for showcasing abilities and tackling intricate problems. The opportunity to learn and grow alongside peers and mentors is invaluable. Additionally, the competition boasts impressive cash prizes for top teams and individual accolades for outstanding performance, further fueling the competitive spirit.

But the benefits extend far beyond the competition itself. ASSIST Tech Challenge opens doors to a network of professionals at ASSIST Software, potentially leading to internships or even dream job opportunities. It's a chance to gain exposure, build connections, and kickstart a promising career in the software development industry.

Whether you're a student with a team or flying solo, ASSIST Tech Challenge welcomes all with open arms. They'll even connect individual applicants with compatible teammates, ensuring everyone has the chance to participate.