Team Enigma - The Seneca Housing Hackathon 2024 Experience
This blog post goes beyond just our journey through the Hackathon; it delves into the origins of our passion, the guiding forces behind our success, and the collective experiences that shaped our path.
Introducing Team Enigma
We are Team Enigma, proud participants and the first-place winners of the Seneca Housing Hackathon 2024. Our team is composed of dedicated students from Seneca Polytechnic, each bringing unique skills and perspectives to the forefront of innovation and technology.
Our team includes:
- Abdullah Al Mamun Fahim
- Andrii Sych
- Cleo Buenaventura
- Fevin Patel
- Majd Al Mnayer
Except for Fevin Patel, who was enrolled in the Computer Programming & Analysis (CPA) program, all other team members are part of the Honours Bachelor of Technology - Software Development (BSD) program. Together, we combined our knowledge, creativity, and technical expertise to tackle the challenges presented at the hackathon, ultimately leading us to victory.
Curiosity: The Spark of Our Journey
Our shared curiosity about technology was the beacon that led us to pursue the Honours Bachelor of Technology - Software Development (BSD) and the Computer Programming & Analysis (CPA) programs at Seneca Polytechnic. This curiosity wasn't just a personal trait; it was the glue that bonds us together, fostering a sense of unity and a relentless drive to explore and understand the technological world. It was this very curiosity that not only ignited our passion for technology but also paved the way for our collaborative journey, teaching us invaluable lessons and shaping our approach to both challenges and innovations.
Discord Study Sessions: Building Our Community Virtually
Joining college during COVID-19 presented its own set of challenges, particularly when it came to forming those crucial connections with our peers. In-person interactions were scarce, and the opportunity to meet, mingle, and forge friendships was limited. However, we found a lifeline in technology - specifically, Discord. In 2021, Majd took the initiative to create a Discord server for all BSD program students. This platform became our virtual hangout spot, transforming our college experience during those unusual times.
On this server, we did more than just discuss coursework. We built friendships, shared laughs, exchanged knowledge, played video games, and supported each other through thick and thin. It became our digital campus, a place where we could enjoy college life, even if only virtually. Our Discord study sessions weren't just about academics; they were about building a community and making our college years memorable and enjoyable, despite the circumstances.
Remembering Professor Les Czegel: A Source of Inspiration and Dedication
Embarking on our academic journey presented its challenges, especially in the beginning. It was the guidance and enthusiasm of mentors like Professor Les Czegel that inspired us to keep moving forward. His deep passion for software development was not just inspiring - it was transformative.
Having Professor Czegel as our teacher was a privilege. He showed us that software development is more than a discipline; it's a realm where creativity meets logic, where innovation thrives. We were fortunate to learn from him and to see technology through his eyes, recognizing its power to change the world.
His impact went far beyond our time in the classroom, profoundly influencing our approach to learning and our future ambitions in tech. It was an honor to be his students, to be part of his legacy, and to carry forward the enthusiasm and insight he shared with us.
Guidance and Support: The Role of Professor Eden Burton
Throughout our educational voyage at Seneca, one figure stood out for his unwavering guidance and support: Professor Eden Burton, the BSD program coordinator. His role in our journey wasn't just administrative; it was deeply instructional and profoundly impactful.
We had the distinct pleasure of being taught by Professor Burton on three separate occasions, each time gaining more than just academic knowledge. His approach to teaching, characterized by patience and encouragement, made a significant difference in our understanding and engagement with the material. Professor Burton was always there to answer our questions, guide our inquiries, and provide the support we needed to navigate the complexities of our studies.
It's through his steadfast guidance and supportive nature that we've reached this point in our academic and professional paths. Professor Burton didn't just teach us; he equipped us with the tools and confidence to succeed, and for that, we are profoundly grateful.
Igniting a Flame: How Professor Cornel Barna Inspired Us
Professor Cornel Barna's classes represented the pinnacle of our learning experiences in the program. His enthusiasm for technology and teaching was palpable, setting him apart as a truly inspirational figure in our academic lives. It was his deep-seated passion for imparting knowledge that greatly fueled our own zeal for technology.
Beyond just covering the syllabus, Professor Cornel took a genuine interest in our development, offering his support and sharing insights from his own rich experience in the tech field. His commitment went beyond the classroom; he was always ready to offer guidance, encourage curiosity, and help us see the broader applications of our studies.
Thanks to Professor Cornel, our interest in technology grew into a passionate pursuit. His influence has been a key factor in shaping our enthusiasm and approach toward the tech world, demonstrating that the impact of a dedicated educator extends far beyond traditional teaching.
A World of Curiosity Unleashed
Following our experiences with such passionate educators, our curiosity knew no bounds. We were brimming with an eagerness to dive deeper into the realm of technology - every aspect of software development, every new innovation in computing, seemed to call out to us, inviting us to explore further.
This newfound intrigue wasn't superficial; it was a profound yearning to understand the intricacies of technology, to unravel the complexities of code, and to envision the endless possibilities that software development could offer. Our hunger for knowledge was insatiable - we found ourselves constantly seeking out more information, more skills, and more understanding, eager to absorb every bit of knowledge that came our way.
Transforming Tediousness into Excitement: Dr. Mariam Daoud's Approach to Databases
It's a common sentiment among software developers and students alike: database management can be the driest and most monotonous aspect of software development. Yet, Dr. Mariam Daoud turned this preconception on its head for us. Her dynamic and engaging teaching style breathed life into what many consider a tedious subject, making our database lectures not just bearable, but genuinely enjoyable and enlightening.
Dr. Daoud's ability to make complex concepts accessible and fun ensured that we didn't just learn about databases - we gained a deep and practical understanding of them. Her guidance was instrumental in enabling us to apply database systems efficiently in our personal projects. Thanks to Dr. Daoud, we've come to appreciate the critical role and underlying beauty of database management in the tech landscape.
Fostering Growth and Curiosity: The Supportive World of Professor Cathy Leung
Professor Catherine Leung stands out as a beacon of energy and positivity, influencing us not just academically but also in how we approach challenges and opportunities. Her responsiveness to our endless questions showcased not only her expertise but also her genuine passion for the subjects she taught.
With an exceptional ability to break down complex ideas in mathematics, design patterns, and algorithms into understandable segments, Professor Leung made daunting topics approachable and intriguing. Her encouragement went beyond mere words; it was her faith in our potential that urged us to strive harder, explore deeper, and achieve more.
More than just an educator, Professor Leung was a mentor who presented us with countless opportunities for growth and learning. Her unwavering support and vibrant enthusiasm made our educational journey not only more enlightening but also truly enjoyable.
Special Connections and System Design Insights with Professor Junlian Xiang
Professor Junlian Xiang saw something unique in our group - a strong bond and camaraderie that stood out. She often remarked on the unity and closeness we shared, which was evident in our interactions both inside and outside the classroom. This sense of togetherness extended to engaging discussions and even negotiations about our assignments, practices that Professor Xiang not only accommodated but also appreciated, recognizing our skills in advocacy and dialogue.
Our time with Professor Xiang was not just about academic transactions; it was a deep dive into the intricacies of system design. She guided us through the 'whys' and 'hows,' laying a solid foundation for our understanding and shaping our approach to designing systems. These discussions were not just lessons; they were collaborative explorations that enhanced our comprehension and appreciation of system design as a critical component of technology.
Thriving in Competition: Our Journey at Skills Ontario
Participation in the Skills Ontario Post-Secondary Competition was a milestone for Andrii and Majd, and by extension, our entire team. Being selected to represent Seneca in a contest that draws the brightest from across Ontario was both an honor and a formidable challenge. The competition's intensity was daunting, pitting Majd and Andrii against some of the most talented individuals in the province.
The outcomes were exhilarating: Andrii clinched the Bronze medal in web development, and Majd secured the Gold in coding. These victories were more than just personal triumphs; they were affirmations of our team's capabilities and the quality of education we received at Seneca. Witnessing our teammates excel on such a prestigious platform significantly uplifted our collective spirit and bolstered our belief in our potential to achieve greatness.
Embarking on a Cloud Journey with Professor David Humphrey
Our exploration into software development took a significant leap forward with the cloud computing course led by Professor David Humphrey. This course was not just another academic requirement; it became a pivotal moment in our educational journey, introducing us to the expansive world of cloud technologies.
Professor Humphrey was instrumental in demystifying the complexities of cloud computing, DevOps, Docker, and AWS. His approach to teaching was hands-on and responsive, allowing us to navigate and overcome the challenges of learning such cutting-edge technologies. His readiness to address our queries and guide us through difficult concepts ensured that no question went unanswered, no struggle unaddressed.
By the end of the course, we were not just students with theoretical knowledge; we had transformed into confident individuals ready to leverage cloud resources in real-world applications. The skills and insights gained from this course empowered us to tackle software development projects of any scale, laying a strong foundation for our future careers in the industry.
Exploring Beyond the Curriculum: The Impact of Our Side Projects
Our side projects have been the crucible where we honed the skills acquired in our coursework, pushing the boundaries of our knowledge and venturing beyond the structured curriculum. These projects served as our playground for experimentation and learning, allowing us to delve into unfamiliar territories, whether it be new programming languages, frameworks, or libraries. Our goal was not just to understand these tools but to master them, to see how they could be woven into the fabric of our projects to create something impactful.
But it wasn't just technical skills that we developed through these endeavors. Our side projects were also a testament to the power of collaboration, offering us invaluable lessons in teamwork and the effective use of version control systems. Through these collaborative efforts, we not only improved our technical prowess but also our ability to work seamlessly as a unit, tackling challenges and innovating together.
Appreciating Web Design with Professor Rob Huang
Despite our team's predominant focus on backend and cloud development, we've grown to appreciate the nuances of web design, thanks to Professor Rob Huang. His dedication to teaching and his enthusiasm for the subject matter shone through as he demystified various design principles for us. He transformed what initially seemed like a daunting aspect of development into an accessible and engaging field.
Professor Rob's instruction went beyond just making frontend development less intimidating; he deepened our understanding of user-centric design. This newfound knowledge was not just theoretical - we applied these principles in our hackathon projects, enhancing the user experience and accessibility of our applications. His teachings have left a lasting impact on how we approach software development, reminding us of the importance of design in creating comprehensive and user-friendly solutions.
Discovering the Joy of Project Management with Professor Rachit Chaudhary
Though our hearts leaned towards the technical side of software development, Professor Rachit Chaudhary unveiled the unexpected charm of project management to us. His engaging teaching style transformed what we anticipated might be a dry subject into an enjoyable and insightful experience.
Professor Chaudhary didn't just teach us the concepts; he connected them to the real world, demonstrating their relevance and application in the industry. His explanations went beyond the 'what' to delve into the 'why' and 'how,' providing us with a comprehensive understanding of project management principles.
Beyond his instructional prowess, Professor Chaudhary's empathetic and approachable demeanor stood out. He was always available to address our questions and concerns, offering clarity and support not just within the confines of the classroom but also beyond its walls. His genuine care and dedication made learning a pleasure and showed us the critical role of project management in our future careers.
Engagement and Learning at the Bell Geekfest Hackathon
Fuelled by their zeal for challenges and innovation, Majd and Andrii, along with two other peers, stepped into the competitive arena of the Bell Geekfest Hackathon, encouraged by Professors Rachit Chadhaury and Eden Burton. Although this particular team didn't land in the top five, the hackathon was a treasure trove of learning and experience.
During this event, Majd and Andrii applied their cloud computing knowledge, gained from a course taught by Professor David Humphrey, to architect a secure and functional cloud-based data storage system. They skillfully utilized AWS technologies, such as Lambda, Key Management System, Simple Storage Service, and DynamoDB, showcasing their ability to implement a sophisticated project under tight deadlines.
The insights and lessons from the Bell Geekfest Hackathon were invaluable. Majd and Andrii took their learnings back to our team, enriching our collective knowledge and preparing us for future challenges. Their experience underscored the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and the continuous pursuit of growth and learning in the field of technology.
A Revelation in Cloud Versatility
Our experiences, especially those guided by Professor David Humphrey in the realm of cloud computing, led us to an enlightening realization: mastering one cloud platform illuminates the path to understanding others. This foundational knowledge in cloud computing, initially centered around AWS, empowered us to adeptly navigate and utilize Azure services when the need arose.
With confidence bolstered by our course learnings, we ventured into integrating Azure services such as CosmosDB into our projects. This not only demonstrated our capability to adapt and apply our knowledge across different cloud environments but also underscored the universality of cloud principles. By leveraging Azure's unique features, we were able to fulfill our project's requirements, validating our belief that a solid grounding in one cloud technology paves the way for mastering others.
Embarking on the AI/ML Adventure with Microsoft Learn
Our exploration into the realms of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning was significantly launched forward by the resources provided through Microsoft Learn. Diving deep into modules and documentation, we dedicated numerous hours to demystify these advanced technologies, understanding their mechanisms and potential applications.
Our journey culminated in the creation of a customized Azure OpenAI model, specifically designed to aid international students through our platform. This model wasn't our only achievement; we also developed a machine learning model capable of predicting future apartment rent prices. Leveraging a time-series forecasting algorithm offered by Microsoft Azure's Automated ML, and using a decade's worth of rent data from various Toronto neighborhoods sourced from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, we established a predictive tool that stands as a testament to our applied learning in AI and ML.
Leveraging Azure CosmosDB for Strategic Data Storage
As our project evolved, the need for a reliable and secure data storage solution became paramount, especially for housing vital information central to our business model. We aimed to meticulously store and manage data concerning Toronto's areas most sought after by international students - a task that required a robust and efficient database solution.
Enter Azure CosmosDB: our chosen platform for this critical component of our infrastructure. Its user-friendly nature and rapid setup process, supplemented by the comprehensive resources from Microsoft Learn, allowed us to quickly become proficient with the service. CosmosDB's capabilities enabled us to efficiently organize and secure our essential data, proving to be an indispensable asset in our technological toolkit.
Engaging in the Seneca Housing Hackathon
After their experience in the Skills Ontario competition, Majd and Andrii were captivated by the announcement of the Seneca Hackathon. They recognized the importance of this event, especially given its focus on the pressing issue of housing in Canada.
The hackathon boasted its most extensive participation to date, with over a thousand contenders from 30 educational institutions throughout Toronto. Eager to take part, Majd and Andrii set out to assemble a dedicated team. They welcomed Cleo and Al, their classmates, to tackle this challenge together. The team was then completed with Fevin, who reconnected with Majd through LinkedIn, rekindling their past connection from Professor David Humphrey's cloud computing class.
United in purpose, the team engaged in deep brainstorming sessions, exploring a wealth of ideas to address the housing crisis. Our synergy was evident as we filled our idea board with innovative solutions, each with the potential to contribute positively to Canadian society.
Strategic Preparation for the Housing Hackathon
The Hackathon Mixer at the Seneca Newnham Campus was a pivotal moment for us, especially after hearing Professor Mark Buchner articulate the theme and the specific challenge of student housing. His insights into the complexity of the housing issue resonated with us, reinforcing our determination to tackle the problem with a comprehensive approach.
After the mixer, our team got together to discuss the practicality of our ideas. We were determined to face this challenge head-on, using it as motivation to be detailed and creative with our solutions. We also sought the perspectives of our international classmates and team members, conducting interviews to understand the unique housing difficulties they encountered in Canada.
These discussions were invaluable and guided us in refining our strategies. They shed light on aspects we had overlooked and inspired us to weave these new insights into our proposal. We then engaged in thorough research to ensure our ideas were practical, affordable, and truly beneficial. Our aim was to craft a set of actionable, impactful solutions that addressed the real challenges of student housing in Canada.
Applying Statistics to Machine Learning
This semester, we had the chance to deepen our understanding of statistics through the new course "Statistics for Developers," taught by Professor Eden Burton. Though it was primarily a statistics course, the knowledge we gained became crucial when we started working on the Machine Learning aspects of our project.
Professor Eden was incredibly helpful, not just with course-related questions but with any inquiry we had, even if it was beyond the course scope. His openness to our questions allowed us to see the practical applications of statistical concepts in Machine Learning.
Without Professor Eden's patient explanations and support, venturing into Machine Learning would have been much more daunting. His guidance was vital in bridging the gap between theoretical statistics and their practical use in our Machine Learning endeavors.
Teamwork and Positive Energy: Our Foundation for Success
Every team project tests resilience, often pushing team members to their limits. We faced numerous challenges that made us doubt our decisions and our contributions. Yet, in these testing times, the strength of our teamwork shone the brightest.
Our journey was a testament to the saying, "It's not about how hard you hit; it's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward." This spirit of perseverance defined our experience. Whenever one of us struggled or felt discouraged, there was always another team member ready to offer support, encouragement, or a helping hand with pair programming.
This mutual support was the cornerstone of our progress and achievements. Without such solidarity and shared commitment, our success would have been unattainable. Our team's unwavering support for each other was not just our strategy; it was our lifeline.
Utilizing Swimlane Diagrams for Clarity and Organization
Developing a robust system requires a deep understanding of how its various components interact and their respective responsibilities. Thanks to Professor Junlian Xiang, we recognized this and identified swimlane diagrams as essential tools for our design process. These diagrams were pivotal in mapping out the interactions within the system, allowing us to visualize and delineate the roles and activities of different components clearly.
By incorporating swimlane diagrams, we could segment the system effectively, assigning clear responsibilities and defining how each part should behave and interact with others. This methodical approach enabled us to organize the system's functionalities logically, ensuring that each component's role was well-defined and that the overall system operated cohesively.
Architecture Diagram: Mapping Our Azure Infrastructure
Our project's backbone was the infrastructure we developed on Microsoft Azure. The comprehensive resources from Microsoft Learn were instrumental in our education and application of various Azure services. We harnessed the capabilities of Azure OpenAI, Azure Automated ML, and Azure CosmosDB to build a robust system.
The architecture diagram played a crucial role in this process. It served as a visual blueprint of our Azure-based infrastructure, outlining how each service was interconnected and contributed to our overall system. This clarity was essential for us to efficiently implement, integrate, and manage the various Azure services, ensuring our infrastructure was not only powerful but also seamlessly orchestrated.
Introducing Maple Nest: A Revolutionary Platform
After intensive research, collaboration, and development, we're proud to unveil "Maple Nest" - an innovative AI and machine learning platform designed to simplify the apartment-hunting process for international students in Canada. Beyond aiding students, Maple Nest also provides valuable insights for real estate developers, pinpointing high-demand areas where new housing developments are needed most.
Our Technological Foundation
Backend: Our robust backend is powered by a combination of JavaScript, Node.js, and Express.js, integrated with Azure's cutting-edge services like OpenAI, Automated ML, and CosmosDB. Additionally, we incorporated chart.js to handle our charting and data visualization needs.
Frontend: For a seamless and responsive user interface, we opted for JavaScript and Next.js 14, enhanced with TailwindCSS and Material Tailwind UI for styling. Our application's interactivity is boosted by driver.js and jspdf, with the Google Maps API providing dynamic mapping capabilities.
Key Features
Our core objective was to present our features in a user-friendly manner, ensuring intuitiveness and ease of use. Maple Nest aims to be more than just a platform; it's a supportive companion for international students navigating the often overwhelming Canadian real estate market.
One of the standout features of Maple Nest is the virtual neighborhood experience it offers. Even from thousands of miles away, users can get a feel for the neighborhoods they're considering, thanks to our integration of immersive, data-rich virtual tours.
Additionally, our AI assistant is always on hand to help users with their queries, offering personalized assistance and enhancing their experience on the platform. Whether it's answering questions about local amenities or providing updates on apartment availability, our AI assistant ensures that users have all the information they need at their fingertips.
Guidance from Professor Jenelle Chen: Enhancing User Experience
In developing this project, an understanding and improvement from every angle were prioritized, focusing not only on the technical aspects but also on reception by end-users. Expertise from Professor Jenelle Chen in mobile technology provided essential advice, benefiting the project significantly.
Professor Jenelle's insights were invaluable in enhancing user-friendliness for Maple Nest. Her guidance helped make the platform more intuitive and easier to navigate, ensuring an engaging and straightforward user experience.
The input from Professor Jenelle proved crucial in refining the application to align more closely with user needs, demonstrating the importance of considering user experience in technology development.
Final Enhancements and Presentation
Upon realizing qualification for the finals, immense joy was felt as the recognition of hard work became apparent. Those last few days before the final round were spent diligently adding new features and refining the platform. The goal was to introduce a standout feature, a 'highlight presentation,' to ensure a memorable impact if the top four was reached. The ambition was to have the platform fully deployed and accessible, demonstrating both the team's adaptability and commitment. Fortunately, this opportunity to showcase such qualities came during the culminating presentation.
Gratitude to Professor Mark Buchner and the Organizing Team
The hackathon proved to be an extraordinary journey, marked by impeccable organization and professionalism at every turn. Sincere appreciation is extended to Aliraza Versi and Sharmon Cahal for their unwavering support throughout the event. A special thank you is also directed to Professor Mark Buchner and the remarkable organizing team for their dedication and hard work. The privilege of participating in such a well-curated event is deeply cherished. Heartfelt thanks are conveyed to all involved, including Seneca Polytechnic, for hosting an event of such caliber.
Embracing the Journey: Perseverance Through Trial and Error
This experience underscores a vital lesson: the path to success is a mosaic of wins and losses. The essence of perseverance is not fixated on the outcome but rather on the journey itself - the wealth of knowledge gained, the hurdles overcome, and the profound satisfaction derived from surmounting challenges. The key is to persist, to remain steadfast in the face of obstacles, and to cherish every step of the learning process. With dedication, resilience, and a focused mindset, achieving your goals becomes not just a possibility but an inevitability.
~ Team Enigma
Abdullah Al Mamun Fahim
LinkedIn | GitHub