"It is a great kickstart for me as I learned about the contribution of such charities in shaping future generations."

Sharvari Mauskar is an MSc Pharmaceuticals student at the UCL School of Pharmacy. This November, she participated in our Social Hackathons with one of our partners, Business Education Events, helping them with digitising their one of their business models and revamping an enterprise programme to be delivered online. Read on to find out more about her Hackathons experience, and why she chose to get involved! 

What made you decide to sign up for the Hackathon? 

To be frank, I've never had any prior experience in business and its reality. I decided to sign up for this event as I would be able to gain some experience in corporate world and improve my transferrable as well as corporate skills in a more tangible way which will be useful in future. Also, I wanted to connect with other people from different professions and gain some insight from them.

Have you learned new skills or developed existing ones?

Yes. I was able to brush up my skills of problem solving, critical thinking, and time management. I learned new skills such as being creative, self confidence and the ability to socialise with other peers.

Do you feel you've made a difference to the charity, or learned about a new community?

Yes, it has made a difference. The charity was able distinguish their problems and were taking down important tips and suggestions in building their pages on social media and also their website. They were very positive about making dramatic changes and also about the development of entrepreneurship skills for children via social platforms. I have not come across such a community who works with children to inoculate business ideas and shape them for future business-related careers. It is a great kickstart for me as I learned about various aspects of business and the contribution of such charities in shaping future generations.

How did you find the digital aspect of the Hackathon?

It was indeed a good experience. Zoom was the best platform since face-to-face was not possible amidst Covid-19.

Have you enjoyed the Social Hackathon experience? 

Yes, I definitely enjoyed this Hackathon as it was my first volunteering experience. I would love to participate in more Social Hackathons as it has positive impact and good learning points!