Gopher Day of Coderetreat

Dedicate a Day to Your Programming Craft

FAQ

Is this event for learning how to program?

No, sorry. Coderetreats are great for programmers become better, but they are not good at teaching people how to program.

That's not to say you have to be an expert, or even intermediate, programmer to attend. Regardless of your skill level, you will have things to lear and to teach. But if you have no programming experience then the Coderetreat will be more frustrating than fun.

Why can't I RSVP?

We are currently full. If you want to be put on a waiting list, email whit0694@umn.edu

What is the Happy Hour?

Location is TBD, but we'll head somewhere for food and drinks. As many of our attendees will be under 21, we will be going somewhere that works for all ages.

Snacks and appetizers will be paid for, but any drinks (alcoholic or not) will be your responsibility.

How do I let you know if I decide I can no longer attend?

You can go back to the RSVP page and change your answer, or you can email me directly at whit0694@umn.edu

Can I use [insert programming language here]?

Probably! Throughout the day we'll be working on implementing Conway's Game of Life (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conway%27s_Game_of_Life) and you should be able to to do that in any programming language.

I do ask that if you bring your own laptop you have it set up to run whatever programming language you want to use. Our day will be very full and we won't have time to configure machines.

What should I bring?

Not much. If you have a laptop, bring it (and make sure it's got your language(s) of choice ready to go). Pens, pencils & paper are always handy.

What's the agenda?

  • 8:00 - 8:45 : arrival, coffee/breakfast
  • 8:45 - 9:00 : welcome, introductions, explanation of the problem
  • 9:00 - 9:45 : Session #1
  • 9:45 - 10:00 : retrospective, break
  • 10:00 - 10:45 : Session #2
  • 10:45 - 11:00 : retrospective, break
  • 11:00 - 11:45 : Session #3
  • 11:45 - 12:00 : retrospective, break
  • 12:00 - 1:30 : lunch, socializing
  • 1:30 - 2:15 : Session #4
  • 2:15 - 2:30 : retrospective, break
  • 2:30 - 3:15 : Session #5
  • 3:15 - 3:30 : retrospective, break
  • 3:30 - 4:15 : Session #6
  • 4:15 - 4:30 : retrospective, break
  • 4:00 - 5:00 : Closing circle
  • 5:00 - end Happy Hour (location TBD)

In a 'Session' you will be pairing with another attendee on Conway's Game of Life. You'll have a different pair for each programming session.

What's the food situation?

We will have continental breakfast options (and coffee) available in the morning. Lunch will be pizza from Mesa. Snacks and pop will be available throughout the day. We will be providing vegan and nut-free options. If you have other dietary needs please let me know at whit0694@umn.edu