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PeakBuddies

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PeakBuddies - Transforming hackathon networking experiences for students and participants. Our project is designed to foster meaningful connections through a novel "speed networking" approach. We are thrilled to announce that we are the First place winners of Mountain Madness 2024 🏆.

Overview

PeakBuddies App revolutionizes the way networking is conducted at hackathons. Inspired by the spontaneous interactions of the BeReal app, our platform aims to facilitate meaningful connections. By integrating an innovative approach where participants receive pings at predetermined times to meet others in random locations, we ensure an engaging and explorative networking experience. This method not only encourages participants to discover different parts of the venue but also adds an element of surprise to the networking process.

The Problem

Networking at hackathons often lacks spontaneity and can feel intimidating or forced. Participants may find it challenging to connect with others in a meaningful way amid the hustle and bustle of the event.

Our Solution: PeakBuddies

Speed Networking: Just like speed dating, but for professional and creative connections. Participants exchange LinkedIn profiles, engage in timed interactions with conversation prompts, and have the opportunity to meet a wide array of individuals.
Explorative Meetups: By utilizing an API for indoor location tracking, we ensure participants can easily find their meeting spots, encouraging exploration and making the networking experience enjoyable.
LinkedIn Integration: Profiles feature LinkedIn information, relevant experience, and personal interests, making it easy to connect with and remember new acquaintances.

Tech Stack and Tools

Our choice of technologies reflects our commitment to creating a responsive, user-friendly, and scalable platform:

Frontend: Built with React, enabling a dynamic and responsive user interface.
Backend: Node.js and Express.js serve as the backbone, providing a robust server-side solution.
Database: MongoDB, offering a flexible, document-oriented database system.
APIs:
- LinkedIn API: For importing user profiles and facilitating professional connections.
- MapBox API: Utilized for mapping indoor meeting locations, ensuring users can find their meetup spots effortlessly.

Features

Profiles: Display of personal and professional information pulled from LinkedIn.
Organizational Tools: Allows event organizers to set up meeting rooms and schedules seamlessly.
Networking Mechanism: A unique approach to meeting new people in a structured yet spontaneous manner.

Impact

PeakBuddies aims to make networking at hackathons more accessible, efficient, and enjoyable. By removing the traditional barriers to networking, we provide a platform where participants can forge connections that go beyond the event, potentially lasting a lifetime.

Future Directions

We envision PeakBuddies expanding its features to include more personalized matchmaking based on interests and professional goals, making every networking opportunity count.

Join us in revolutionizing hackathon networking and creating more meaningful connections. PeakBuddies - where every encounter is an opportunity for growth.