March Newsletter: Prototypes, Presentations, and Perseverance

🎉 March was full of prototypes, presentations, and perseverance. From wrapping up the Microsoft challenge to shining at TVSEF and my first conference, here’s a look back!

March Newsletter: Prototypes, Presentations, and Perseverance

🖥️ Microsoft Challenge Complete

We wrapped up our Microsoft challenge this month! I built the working prototype below, and our team crafted a polished presentation deck to showcase our solution.

Prototype for the Microsoft challenge

🏆 TVSEF Showcase

I attended the Thames Valley Science and Engineering Fair (TVSEF) and presented my project. Though I didn’t earn the trip to CWSF, my work was recognized with two major awards:

  • Gold Medal
  • OES-Inc Excellence Award
  • Entrance Scholarship to the University of Ottawa

Below is a clip from my demonstration:

Reflection: Not every outcome is in our control, and sometimes bias plays a role. While I was disappointed not to advance, the community feedback and these awards remind me that perseverance and quality work speak volumes. Life isn’t always fair, but we keep moving forward.

🤝 First Conference: Code Tracks Reacts!

I attended my first tech conference, Code Tracks Reacts!, where I practiced networking and learned from experts. Highlights included:

It was inspiring to connect with fellow developers and celebrate community innovation over snacks and great conversation.

🌟 Looking Ahead

March taught me the power of building, presenting, and persevering. As we move into May, I’m excited to:

  1. Start the MoonShot at TKS
  2. Come up with a project idea for next year's TVSEF
  3. Build A Minecraft Mod in Java just for fun!

Thanks for following along this journey.

Best regards, Malek Hammoud