Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC), one of the most prestigious competitive programming events in the world. Reflecting on the experience, I can't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude and pride for being a part of this event.
Our team, Team ddos, consisted of three passionate and motivated members, including myself – Sheikh Noor Abdullah. We were guided by our teacher, Appel Mahamud Pranto Sir, whose invaluable support and expertise were instrumental in shaping our approach and boosting our confidence.
The journey to ICPC started months before the contest. The preparation was intense, requiring countless hours of coding, problem-solving, and algorithm practice. We worked together as a team, spending late nights debugging, discussing strategies, and solving problems. The camaraderie we shared and the collective effort toward a common goal made the experience unforgettable.
The day of the competition was both thrilling and nerve-wracking. As we sat at our computers, surrounded by bright minds from all over the world, the pressure was immense. Every second counted, and every decision had to be made quickly and efficiently. Despite the challenges, the excitement of solving each problem, no matter how difficult, made every moment worth it.
ICPC taught me more than just technical skills. It helped me improve my teamwork, communication, and time management skills, all while deepening my passion for programming. The event provided me with the chance to compete alongside some of the brightest minds, and even though we didn’t win, the experience was truly invaluable.
The most rewarding part of ICPC was the opportunity to learn from the best. I realized how much there is to learn in the world of algorithms, problem-solving, and coding efficiency. It was humbling to see how others approached the same problems in different ways, and it pushed me to think outside the box.
If you are considering participating in ICPC or any similar competition, I highly recommend it. It’s a great way to test your skills, challenge yourself, and grow both as a programmer and as a person. I’m already looking forward to my next chance to compete, armed with all the lessons I’ve learned.