He’s a Computer Sciences major, a sportsman, and who knows, perhaps even a future millionaire, thanks to a new app his company is developing! In Soumyajit’s words, however, he’s not a ‘traditional geek’. So who is he and more importantly, what’s this new app he’s talking about?
Soumyajit, we all are fascinated by your new project – the app! What can you tell us about it?
The app Lokki was first developed by F-Secure (Ed. note: an online security and privacy company based in Helsinki) and then we at Software Factory decided to continue the development. It’s an Open Source app that can function as a multi-user location tracker. For example, you can use Lokki to make sure your children get to their destination safely, share your current destination with you friends to meet up, and more!
So how much ‘computer knowledge’ does it involve?
Well it requires advanced knowledge of a programming language called JAVA as well as a work station like Android studio and basic computer operations. Of course it’s possible to create apps without coding, such as the click-and-choose methods for making websites. Although basic design sense, along with basic computation knowledge, are still a must.
You must be very excited about Lokki! What are your hopes for the app?
Right now we’re asking for feedback from experts and users and visiting startup events such as Slush. As Lokki is Open Source, anyone is welcome to work on its code in GitHub – we’ve got another team doing further development on the app this month. Of course I hope Lokki would gain a lot of popularity and attract many users, and I want it to look good in my CV, too.Â
What do you mean when you say you aren’t a ‘traditional geek’?
Well, a ‘traditional geek’ is always stereotyped as someone shy of social acquaintances and being in the outdoors, which is quite different from who I am. My friends can vouch for the fact that I’m not socially awkward at all and my love for football, basketball and parties definitely speak for my outgoing nature. But when I’m in front of my 15.6 inch laptop screen, I’m a geek in every sense of the word.Â
Tell me more about your hobbies!
Basketball is a passion – I love to shoot hoops. University of Helsinki’s sports’ facilities, Unisport, is a great place for people passionate about sports and fitness and there’s also a futsal facility, which is really fun. Staying fit and healthy should be a priority when you’re living alone in a foreign country and I would encourage everyone to take up some sports.
What are some of the highlights of your stay in Helsinki so far?
I really enjoyed my whole Helsinki Summer School experience and there was this one time when I cooked Indian food with a bunch of Finnish friends, which was really fun. Oh and I went horse riding and took a selfie with the horse! Ah, my freshman adventures…Â
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Good luck with your app and your studies, Soumyajit! Check out Lokki’s website here.Â