When Rahul Sudev (Computer Science ’26) first learned about HackHarvard, he saw more than just a weekend event. He recognized it as a unique opportunity to challenge himself, collaborate with students across the country, and bring innovative ideas to life. The event, hosted by Major League Hacking, is known for bringing together students for just 36 hours and offering the kind of fast-paced, high-impact environment that entrepreneurial students such as Rahul can thrive in.
Behind his success at HackHarvard was the strong academic foundation he had built at Iowa State University. “My coursework gave me the core principles that allowed me to confidently architect our solution and troubleshoot technical problems under pressure,” explained Rahul. “That solid academic base was the platform that enabled me to be creative and effective, and this experience truly wouldn't have been possible without the preparation I received here.”
While the technical challenge was intense, Rahul says that the most rewarding part of the experience was the people he met. The event was filled with inspiring conversations from start-up founders, engineers from top tech companies, and fellow students engaged in cutting-edge research. Getting to network with a variety of people helped broaden his understanding of the many career paths available in computer science and sparked new ideas for his own path.
When asked about the biggest takeaway that he brought back to Iowa State, he says, “My main takeaway was a powerful reminder that computer science, at its core, is about applied problem-solving. It's about looking beyond classrooms and grades to solve complex, real-world issues that can genuinely benefit people.”
For students considering participating in hackathons or similar competitions, Rahul’s experience is a reminder that passion and preparation go a long way – as does a little bit of help.
“My main advice is to apply early and not be intimidated; these events are looking for passion, not just experience. I would also highly recommend seeking out funding sources right here at ISU, like the Undergraduate Travel Fund, which can help make these opportunities accessible. Finally, learn from the community by following other students' projects online to see what’s possible and get inspired.”
