#CodingLabStudents: Prabir Balchandani, 13, HCIC 2023 Platinum Winner
Today, we are introducing Prabir, an aspiring 13-year-old coder who clinched the Top Platinum Award for the Hwa Chong Info-Communications Challenge (HCIC) 2023, which is only awarded to the top 1.5% of the participants!
Prabir’s journey with coding began when he was just 9, and his passion for programming has led him to achieve accolades from HCIC, the most reputable coding competition for primary school students, and gaining knowledge in various areas of coding. We’re thrilled to have been part of his journey at Coding Lab!
Read on to discover Prabir’s experiences, the challenges he overcame, and his aspirations for the future.
“Do what you enjoy. Don’t force yourself into anything you don’t like. Just work hard on the things you love and pursue your goals with passion.”
Hi Prabir! Tell us, what do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy cycling, reading books, building complex LEGO structures, solving math problems, and watching videos about the universe.
Congratulations once again on your Platinum Award for HCIC 2023! Can you tell us how you first got started with coding?
I was introduced to MIT App Inventor at the age of 9, where I worked on fun projects. That’s what sparked my interest in software programming, and I’ve been hooked ever since!
What do you like most about coding? How has coding impacted your life?
I love tackling challenges head-on. When I encounter a problem, I’m driven to find a solution no matter how tough it is. Coding has not only been enjoyable for me, but it has also opened doors to amazing opportunities. I’ve won several awards, and in school, I’ve been selected for VEX Robotics, where I get to use Python.
How did you get started at Coding Lab?
I joined Coding Lab to build my portfolio for DSA. Since I was already quite advanced for my age, I couldn’t attend many classes with my age group. However, Coding Lab’s support and guidance helped me focus on enhancing my skills.
Prabir is one of our 3 #CodingLabStudents to achieve the Top Platinum Award in HCIC 2023, awarded to the top 1.5% participants!
What difficulties did you face while learning to code, and how did you overcome them?
I initially struggled with AI programming, but I was determined to improve. By consistently practicing, I managed to overcome those challenges.
Why do you think learning to code is important?
For me, coding is not just a skill—it’s a source of enjoyment and relaxation. I love doing it in my free time, and it also helps me develop problem-solving abilities that are useful in many areas of life.
What do your family and friends say about your coding skills?
Their first reaction is usually, “Wow! He’s so advanced for his age!” Many assume I’ll pursue a tech career.
What are your future aspirations?
I want to study at MIT and pursue my dream of becoming a top programmer. I also aspire to join NUS High School.
Do you have any advice for young coders?
Don’t force yourself into things you don’t enjoy. Focus on what you love, work hard, and stay dedicated to achieving your goals.
We are incredibly proud of Prabir’s accomplishments and the dedication he has shown throughout his coding journey. His passion for coding, combined with his persistence in overcoming challenges, has been truly inspiring.
At Coding Lab, we believe in nurturing each student’s potential, providing them with the tools to think critically and creatively. Prabir is a shining example of how our award-winning curriculum helps students reach new heights in their coding journeys.
Are you inspired by Prabir’s story? Join us at Coding Lab and embark on your own coding adventure today!
Our #CodingLabStudents blogs feature our ambitious students and their ongoing coding journeys – be it the budding coder or advanced Python Pro, we appreciate each and every single one’s efforts as they progress to greater heights. 🌱
Coding Lab offers an award-winning curriculum specially for ages 5 to 18 – check out our courses to begin your own coding journey today!
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(Written by Thinzar)