I won Apples Swift Student Challenge

SSC2024 Social Static 1x1

So I won the challenge and I am more than happy about it. The journey of creating my app for the submission was filled with fun, learning, but also doubts that my app wasn't good enough to win. In this article I will try my best to explain to you what that means and how I won :-)

What is Apple Swift Student Challenge?

The Apple Swift Student Challenge is (as the name suggests) a challenge hosted by Apple. In the Challenge, Apple encourages students around the world to create apps that are creative, technically impressive, and have a social impact.

What is the process to enter like?

Basically, Apple has a few requirements for your app. The first is that the app should be written in Swift in an app called "Swift Playgrounds" (you can also code the app in Xcode, which is much more convenient, trust me). The final package should be less than 25mb. This is it! Now you have to be creative and choose an idea that is unique and has a special connection to you personally.

So after choosing your idea, you basically start coding your app. Except for a deadline, you are free.

How much time you invest depends on how complex your idea is, how much time you have, ... But the most important thing is: Submit! Even if you don't think your app is good enough, at least give it a try! And participating in a challenge can be really motivating, so maybe it will give you the kick to go the extra mile and win the challenge!

If you are new to coding, I encourage you to check out Apple's tutorials, or if you have more time, definitely check out "100 Days of SwiftUI" by Paul Hudson (this is how I started and it really helped).

What have I created?

I created an app to help you keep track of your loved ones who have passed away. Most people can't really imagine what such an app would do, but after I explain it, I feel like they get the concept (at least they act really good).

Basically, the app helps you not to forget the good moments with your loved ones, but to remember them instead. This is very helpful when you feel like you don't really remember their presence anymore.

But you can also write letters to the deceased, collect memories with the family and track your emotions in grief.

So this app really brings positivity to times of grief. I might put it on the App Store, so stay tuned!