For my Scholars Practicum Presentation, I was involved in the development of the NitesOut platform, a comprehensive tool for urban exploration and nightlife engagement. The project took place at NitesOut Entertainment, where our team aimed to create a user-friendly platform to simplify the process of navigating the nightlife scene. I worked closely with a team of 5 other developers to bring this vision to life.
A typical day in the project involved a variety of tasks aimed at progressing the development of the NitesOut platform. Tasks ranged from coding and implementing new features using technologies such as ReactJS, Firebase, CSS, and HTML, to collaborating with other team members to refine the user interface and user experience. We conducted regular meetings to track progress, address any challenges, and plan next steps. Additionally, I was involved in testing and debugging the platform to ensure optimal performance and user satisfaction.
Through this experience, I deepened my understanding of various theoretical and scientific concepts learned in previous coursework, particularly in SGC Colloquium. The HTML and CSS skills I learned from this class really helped me aid in creating the NitesOut website. I observed firsthand the challenges associated with developing a user-centric platform, such as balancing functionality with simplicity and addressing diverse user needs. This experience reinforced the importance of effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills in project management and software development.
As a member of the development team, I found myself playing a key role in implementing and optimizing features of the NitesOut platform. This role was familiar to me, as I had previous experience in software development. However, I also took on new responsibilities in project management and coordination, which allowed me to further develop my leadership and organizational skills.
This project provided me with valuable insights into my professional and academic aspirations. I discovered my passion for software development and project management, confirming my desire to pursue a career in this field. I had the opportunity to develop and practice skills I intended to, such as programming, teamwork, and problem-solving. Looking back, I realize that better preparation through additional coursework in project management and software development methodologies would have been beneficial.
Based on this experience, I am considering pursuing additional coursework in software engineering and project management to further enhance my skills and knowledge in these areas. I am also exploring opportunities for future internships or research projects related to software development. I believe that the skills and experiences gained from this project will undoubtedly contribute to my professional development in both the immediate and longer-term future.
Overall, I highly recommend this opportunity to future SGC students. The experience provided valuable hands-on experience in software development, project management, and teamwork, which are essential skills in today's competitive job market. Additionally, the project allowed for personal growth and exploration of professional interests, making it a valuable learning experience for any aspiring software developer or project manager.