Unveiling my journey from novice coder to blockchain Developer through the immersive world of hackathons.

Contents:-

1. Introduction

2. How I Got into Blockchain ?

3. My First Steps into Blockchain Hackathons

4. Navigating the World of Blockchain

5. Growth and Learning Through Hackathons

6. My Current Earnings

7. Manage time as a College Student

8. Conclusion

Introduction:-

Greetings! I'm Sambit Sargam Ekalabya, a final year student at the National Institute of Science and Technology (Autonomous, NBA and NAAC Accredited) . As a full-stack blockchain developer, I'm currently immersing myself in hackathons while also freelancing until my college tenure ends. With graduation on the horizon, After May Month ; I'm eagerly eyeing remote job prospects in the blockchain realm, eager to continue my journey of exploration and innovation in this dynamic field.

How I Got into Blockchain ?

As I reached the end of my 3rd semester, armed with proficiency in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Participating in hackathons became my gateway into this fascinating realm, where I started small with simple projects, gradually building my skills and confidence. However, it was during one particular hackathon, when I noticed the enticingly high prizes, that my interest in blockchain truly ignited. I found myself drawn to the world of blockchain. It all began with a simple curiosity and a desire to explore new horizons. Eager to seize the opportunity, I delved deep into the roadmap of blockchain technology, immersing myself in its principles, applications, and potential for innovation. From that moment on, I was hooked, embarking on a journey of discovery and growth in the captivating world of blockchain development.

My First Steps into Blockchain Hackathons : -

Stepping into my 4th semester, armed with newfound proficiency in React, Next.js, and a solid understanding of blockchain development on Ethereum and Algorand chains, I embarked on a journey that would redefine my trajectory as a developer. It was during this pivotal time that I plunged headfirst into blockchain hackathons, eager to apply my evolving skill set to real-world challenges. The first hackathon victory came unexpectedly, as my web development-based project, "Find My Food," clinched the prize of around 8 thousand INR, igniting my passion for competitive coding. Buoyed by this success, I ventured into the world of blockchain-based hackathons with renewed enthusiasm. It was at the Activate x Wormhole Hackathon Algorand Track in 2022 where I truly found my stride, emerging victorious and securing the esteemed title of Algorand Track Winner, along with a substantial prize of around 1.5 lakhs. These triumphs not only validated my dedication to mastering blockchain technology but also served as catalysts for further exploration and growth in this exhilarating domain.

Navigating the World of Blockchain :-

Navigating the world of blockchain has been a captivating journey of exploration and discovery. Starting with a solid coding foundation, I delved into the decentralized realm, immersing myself in its architecture and cryptographic intricacies. From Ethereum to Algorand, Solana to Casper, I've explored various platforms, discovering endless possibilities in smart contracts and decentralized applications. Despite its complexities, I'm fueled by the belief that blockchain holds immense potential for revolutionizing industries and empowering individuals worldwide. With every step, I'm driven by curiosity and excitement, eager to contribute to its transformative journey.

Growth and Learning Through Hackathons :-

Participating in hackathons has been instrumental in my growth as a developer and my journey into blockchain technology. Each event presents new challenges and opportunities for learning. Collaborating with peers and mentors has been invaluable, providing diverse perspectives and fostering continuous improvement. Through teamwork, I've tackled complex problems, honed my skills, and embraced resilience in the face of setbacks. Hackathons have not only propelled me forward but also inspired me to push the boundaries of innovation in technology.

My Current Earnings :-

As someone who typically keeps earnings private, sharing this aspect of my journey feels like a departure from the norm. However, for the sake of motivation and to offer insight into the potential of pursuing one's passion, I'll share a glimpse of my financial progress. In the previous year, 2023, my earnings surpassed 2.5 times of the highest on-campus package secured by our batchmates at our institution. While our college may be considered a third-tier establishment, it holds a prestigious status within Odisha. This achievement underscores the opportunities that arise from dedicating oneself to personal growth and pursuing passions, even in unconventional fields like blockchain technology.

Manage time as a College Student :-

We generally spend a lot of time just on social media, chatting on WhatsApp for hours, watching Instagram reels, and talking with friends. To break away from this habit, it's essential to establish a proper routine and allocate only a small amount of time if necessary. Create a schedule based on your class timings before going to bed every day. Now, let's discuss how I manage my time. During my learning phase in the second year, our classes ran from 9 am to 5 pm. I utilized the free class periods for college work and dedicated my evenings and nights to learning blockchain and development topics. I archived all WhatsApp groups and asked a friend to inform me of any important messages. I guarantee that once you start learning, your excitement will increase, and distractions will naturally fade away.

Currently, I'm managing two WhatsApp accounts. I've shifted all the groups from my personal number to the public WhatsApp account and now only open that public number once a day, if necessary. ?? I've observed that this simple change has significantly reduced my WhatsApp screen time from 30 minutes to just 10 minutes. ?? It's amazing how small adjustments can lead to such positive outcomes!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey into blockchain technology is not exclusive to those with technical backgrounds. As demonstrated by my own experience, even a non-technical biology student can successfully learn and thrive in this field. The key lies in dedication, determination, and a willingness to embrace new challenges. By breaking away from distractions, establishing a proper routine, and immersing oneself in learning, anyone can unlock the vast potential of blockchain technology. So, if a non-technical biology student can master blockchain, there's no reason why you can't too. With the right mindset and approach, the possibilities are limitless.