DCU students win Cash for Code

The DCU School of Computing, in conjunction with Openet, hosted Cash for Code, a competition giving students the opportunity to showcase their coding skills and connect with a potential employer, with the added bonus of cash prizes for those finishing with top marks.

25 students took part in the competition that formed part of DCU's annual Tech Week, when industry partners visit campus to engage students on current trends and issues in the tech industry. Openet, Ireland's largest privately-owned software company set a challenge for 2nd, 3rd and 4th Year undergraduate students, requiring them to demonstrate their proficiency in Java and CC++ programming languages. 

The students were tested on a range of competencies, such as the ability to produce working code, the solution elegance and the approach taken.

Rory O'Connor, Head of the DCU School of Computing said:
“We are very proud to host this event. As Ireland's University of Enterprise, we have strong links with industry and events like this allow us to build on our connections with industry partners and provide a path to employment opportunities for our students. This competition is an essential showcase for our students to demonstrate the ability, commitment and talent in computer programming that typifies a DCU computing graduate.”

Founded by DCU graduate Joe Hogan, Openet is a successful Irish company providing software to the telecommunications industry, allowing companies to find out more about how users, machines and services interact with their networks. The company is a supporter of the DCU School of Computing, providing funding for the school to strengthen its academic resources, ensuring that DCU maintains the excellent teaching standards at the core of its reputation. Held once a year, Cash for Code is an opportunity for graduates to advance their career in the software development field by connecting with Openet's senior management on the day. Joe Hogan, founder and CTO of the company, said:
“We are delighted to partner with DCU for this exciting initiative, which gives us the opportunity to inform students about the rewarding careers on offer in Openet after graduation. The DCU School of Computing has a reputation for excellence and innovation and, in our experience, its graduates are industry-ready. At Cash for Code, we had the opportunity to meet with students who already display the skills that help people to flourish in Openet's fast-paced environment, working on large, complex systems.”

After 90 minutes of problem-solving, Conor Hughes 3rd Year BSc Computer Applications, took home the top prize of €1,000 for his efforts, while Stephen McLean, 4th Year BSc Computer Applications and Povilas Auskalnis, 2nd Year BSc Computer Applications claimed the runner up prizes of €500. Additional prizes were handed out for displays of exceptional skill.