My practicum experience was centered around the development of the NitesOut platform, a project aimed at creating a comprehensive tool for urban exploration and nightlife engagement. The site where I worked was NitesOut Entertainment, a startup focused on revolutionizing the way people experience nightlife in their cities. I worked on this project with 5 other software developers.
I found this practicum site through a personal connection – one of my childhood friends was a co-founder of the organization and invited me to be part of the project. This highlights the importance of networking and leveraging personal connections when seeking practicum opportunities. My advice to future SGC Scholars on identifying a practicum site is to utilize online resources such as company websites, social media platforms, and professional networking sites like LinkedIn. Don't hesitate to reach out directly to potential supervisors or contacts within organizations that align with your interests and goals. Draft a concise and personalized email expressing your interest and highlighting relevant skills or experiences that make you a good fit for the opportunity.
During my time at NitesOut Entertainment, I performed various tasks related to the development of the NitesOut platform. As the developer, I helped with the development process, working closely with a team of developers. My responsibilities included coding and implementing features using technologies such as ReactJS, Firebase, CSS, and HTML, collaborating with teammates to refine the user interface and experience, conducting testing and debugging to ensure optimal performance, and participating in regular meetings to track progress and plan next steps. Furthermore, before I started working on the site I had to become familiar with ReactJS and Firebase to make sure I was prepared for the tasks I would be asked to do.
Through this experience, I gained a deeper appreciation for the practical connections between science and society. While the project itself was focused on software development and technology, its ultimate goal was to enhance the way people engage with their communities and explore their cities. This intersection of technology and social engagement highlighted the broader impact that scientific advancements can have on society, reinforcing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. Moreover, working on the NitesOut platform provided insights into the science of user behavior and experience design. By analyzing user interactions and feedback, we were able to iterate and improve upon the platform to better meet the needs and preferences of our target audience. This aspect of the project underscored the importance of applying principles from psychology, human-computer interaction, and data analytics to create user-friendly interfaces.
In terms of modifying my future plans at University of Maryland, College Park and post-bachelor's academic plans, this experience has increased my interest in pursuing a career in software development and project management. It provided me with valuable hands-on experience and insights into the industry, reaffirming my passion for technology and innovation. Additionally, I have decided to pursue a minor in statistics. This decision was influenced by my experience at NitesOut Entertainment, where I gained exposure to data analytics and its importance in driving informed decision-making. By incorporating statistical analysis into my academic curriculum, I aim to enhance my quantitative skills and broaden my understanding of data-driven approaches in problem-solving. Moving forward, I plan to continue exploring opportunities for further learning and growth in these areas, potentially through additional coursework and internships.
In terms of future career plans, this project has influenced my future by giving me a deeper understanding of the software development process and project management principles. It has sparked an interest in pursuing opportunities in startups or tech companies where I can continue to apply and expand upon the skills and knowledge gained during this experience. The project also gave me the confidence to take on challenges in the field of technology. It has given me practical skills and insights that are highly valued in the industry, such as coding proficiency, problem-solving abilities, and team management skills. As I start my career journey, I am excited about the idea of using these skills to contribute to the development of cutting-edge products and solutions that address real-world problems.
Overall, my practicum experience at NitesOut Entertainment was rewarding and insightful. It provided me with valuable hands-on experience in software development, project management, and teamwork, while also highlighting the broader societal impact of scientific advancements. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such an innovative project and look forward to applying the skills and lessons learned in my future.