# Breaking the Ice: My First Time Speaking to 250+ Students

**The "First Time" Jitters**

We all have that one moment we look back on as the "start." For me, that moment was **September 11, 2025**.

I had spoken in small groups before, but this was different. This was the **VS Code Dev Days** event. The auditorium was packed. Over **250+ students** were staring at the stage.

I wasn’t just an attendee this time. I was the speaker.

![](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1768142555442/a389a877-2f6a-4eb3-b2b3-9e7f7a4740ef.jpeg align="center")

**The Goal: Making VS Code Fun**

My session wasn't about complex algorithms or heavy theory. My goal was simple: **Stop making coding boring.**

I led a 45-minute session on "Fun Productivity." Why? Because when you are a junior, staring at a black screen with red error lines is scary. I wanted to show them that VS Code isn't just a text editor, it's a playground.

**What we covered:**

* **Extensions are Superpowers:** I showed them how extensions aren't just for "work", they are for peace of mind.
    
* **Theme It Up:** Customizing the look so you actually *like* staring at your screen.
    
* **Error Handling:** Changing the mindset from "I broke it" to "I'm learning how to fix it."
    

![](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1768142866705/b1e2d217-8774-4905-a390-2cac955c4178.jpeg align="center")

**The "Flow" of the Day**

The event had an amazing rhythm. I wasn't alone; I was part of a solid lineup:

1. **Abdullah Bandukwala (MLSA)** started by building the foundation. He taught the basics of VS Code so everyone was on the same page.
    
2. **Then, I took the stage.** I brought the energy and the "fun" tools.
    
3. **Industry Insights:** We had **Saifuddin Saifee** sir join us to give the real-world perspective.
    
4. **The Finale:** The **ARIF Team** (AI Research & Innovation Forum) hosted a GitHub Copilot build competition. Seeing students code live with AI was the perfect ending.
    

![](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1768143138937/8f4bc029-6782-4d0f-84af-66efe7369542.jpeg align="center")

**Looking Back (4 Months Later)**

Writing this in January 2026, I realize how important that day was.

Stepping onto that stage changed my confidence. The energy in the room was electric. When I cracked a joke about "missing semicolons" and 250 people laughed, that connected me to the community instantly.

That day proved to me that **building a tech culture isn't just about code.** It's about vibes. It's about showing people that tech is welcoming, creative, and yes fun.

Here is to many more stages and many more "Aha!" moments. 🚀