Hack|Bay a hackathon for everyone

Divya Mittal is an international student pursuing a Master’s degree at FAU. She shared her experience at the Hackathon at Zollhof, where she showed her interest in strategy, entrepreneurship and innovation.

(Image: Maria Bayer)

Participating in HackBay was an incredible journey for me. Being my first hackathon, it was filled with excitement, learning, and unforgettable moments. I want to give a huge shoutout to EELISA for sponsoring my ticket and making this opportunity possible. As someone more inclined towards the non-technical aspects of solutions, I often questioned my place in such a tech-centric event. However, HackBay proved that everyone has a crucial role to play.

Our team was a melting pot of talents: software developers, data science students, designers, and business experts. This diverse mix was our strength, driving us to win “Overall Best” category. I was amazed at how seamlessly we worked together, each person bringing unique insights and expertise to the table. It was a powerful reminder that diversity in skills and perspectives can lead to innovative solutions.

(Image: Maria Bayer)

One of the highlights for me was the collaboration and synergy within our team for the Leitner Reisen Challenge. Despite my non-technical background, I realized that my strengths in project management, strategic thinking, and communication were essential to our success. This experience reinforced the value of every team member, regardless of their specific skill set.

HackBay also provided a fantastic platform for networking and learning. I had the opportunity to interact with industry professionals, mentors and peers who shared valuable feedback and guidance. These conversations not only expanded my knowledge but also opened doors to potential collaborations and career opportunities. The workshops and talks were incredibly informative, covering the latest trends and technologies, which fueled my passion for staying updated in the tech field.

The energy at HackBay was electric. The thrill of brainstorming, prototyping, and presenting our solution within a tight timeframe was exhilarating. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and honed my ability to work under pressure. The sense of accomplishment when our hard work paid off was indescribable.

(Image: Maria Bayer)

Overall HackBay was a transformative experience. It confirmed that every skill, technical or non-technical, is vital in a team’s success. I’m now more confident in my abilities and excited to participate in more hackathons. This event has sparked a newfound appreciation for the collaborative spirit and the endless possibilities it brings. I’m eagerly looking forward to next year’s HackBay, ready to contribute and learn even more.