Imagine Cup Roadshow 2012
by Jonathan Audric M. Matias
On the 22nd of June, 2012, the Ateneo’s Microsoft Student Partners—MSP’s—stood in front of the IBM Room in Faura Hall to ask students a single question: how do you fix the world’s problems through technology? Echoing one of the greater aims of Microsoft’s initiatives, the Imagine Cup Roadshow challenged the students in the room to find the courage to join the Microsoft Imagine Cup and answer the question with their own innovative contribution to the world.
But first things first, what is the Imagine Cup? In Microsoft’s own words:
“The Microsoft Imagine Cup is the world’s premier student technology competition. We invite all eligible students to use their imagination and passion to create a technology solution that addresses the Imagine Cup 2012 theme: Imagine a world where technology helps solve the toughest problems.” (Microsoft)
Imagine Cup Roadshow
In short, it is an international competition that collects teams of the brightest and the most creative from around the world to display their innovative solution to current issues. Starting off locally, student teams will join other teams and compete for the goal of international supremacy.
With various categories available, there is no shortage of outlets for creativity and passion. From Windows Phone to Windows OS, from the Xbox 360 and Kinect to the internet, you can compete in multiple areas of expertise. The only requirement: utilize a Microsoft technology. That’s it. The rest is driven by determination, team work, and the will to succeed.
Team Color Sharp
During the roadshow, three teams presented their hardships and accomplishments: Team Color Sharp—represented by CompSAt’s very own Jonathan Sescon and Adrian Perez, Team Agimat, and a La Sallian team—Team Signum Fidei—who managed to reach the International leg. Each provided a few tips to stay ahead of the game:
- “Concept is King!”
- Do Not Cram!
- Be Willing to Learn New Technologies…
- …But Don’t Forget to Use What You Know!
- Meet People, Learn From People!
- Balance Art and Logic
- Make Sure You Have a Diverse Set of Team Mates
- Don’t Be Afraid to Sell Your Idea!
- Enjoy the Experience
- Aim for Gold!
Source: ndt-educational.org
In 2013, the finals will be held in St. Petersburg, Russia—all expenses paid, and spending money provided, by Microsoft for the team that qualifies for the Worldwide Finals. (This year—2012, the finals were held in Sydney, Australia.)
With next year’s competition gearing up in a few months, it may be time to start forming teams and discussing ideas. What will you do to change the world? After all, all it takes is a little imagination.
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