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challenge

Think. Code. Optimize. Repeat.

Think. Code. Optimize. Repeat.

Open for application

Our Challenge

In collaboration with external companies, students engage in authentic algorithmic challenges inspired by real-world computational problems. They are required to design, implement, and optimize algorithmic solutions using an imperative language (C/C++), striving to achieve the highest efficiency and correctness under given constraints. Through this process, students apply theoretical knowledge to open-ended tasks, compare alternative approaches, and justify design choices based on empirical performance. The activity develops problem-solving autonomy, critical evaluation of efficiency trade-offs, and teamwork skills, preparing students to face real computational and industrial contexts. The challenge is managed by a web server, where students can submit their solutions, that are automatically validated and compared with the solutions provided by other participants.

The Team

AM
Profile photo
Alberto Montresor
Teamcher
0 learners
Study format
Hybrid
Application period
9 January – 15 April 2026
Study period
1 May – 31 May 2026
Credits
2 ECTS
Hosting university
University of Trento
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Learning outcomes

Entrepreneurship, Technology & Innovation

ESCO SKILLS

Critical and innovative thinking

ESCO SKILLS

Interpersonal Skills

ESCO SKILLS

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Information

Think. Code. Optimize. Repeat. is a challenge for students who love algorithms, data, and efficiency — and who enjoy turning theory into impact.
In this 8-day challenge, participants will tackle real algorithmic problems proposed by companies such as U-Hopper and Thinkin, working in small teams to design, implement, and optimize their solutions. The goal: to find the most efficient approach to a complex computational task under real constraints.

The challenge is part of the Algorithms and Data Structures courses at the University of Trento, but is also open to motivated students from other universities with solid programming skills in C or C++. Each team submits its code to an online platform that automatically evaluates performance and correctness, maintaining a live ranking that reflects real-time progress.

Beyond the competition, the challenge is an opportunity to learn by doing — to experiment, iterate, and improve based on data and feedback. Participants will gain valuable experience in algorithmic design, performance optimization, teamwork, and problem solving.

At the end of the challenge, the best teams will present their strategies in a public event, sharing insights on how to turn theoretical knowledge into efficient, real-world solutions.

If you enjoy the thrill of coding, the beauty of optimization, and the satisfaction of making algorithms run faster — this challenge is for you.

Hosting university

University of Trento

University of Trento

Challenge providers

U-Hopper
Thinkin