Build with AI: Generative AI Study Jam Cohort at Rajalakshmi Engineering College

Overview:

From October 24th to October 28th, 2024, Rajalakshmi Engineering College (REC) hosted an impactful in-person event, the “Build with AI: Generative AI Study Jam Cohort,” organized by Google Developer Groups on Campus, Rajalakshmi Engineering College (GDG REC). Led by GDG REC’s Prajein C K, with dedicated mentorship from Aswin J D, Daniel Das, Rohit Raj, Somesh, and Sharuk, the cohort brought together 180 students for an immersive experience in Google Cloud, generative AI, and machine learning. This intensive four-day event provided REC students with practical cloud and AI skills through a combination of collaborative activities, mentorship, and a structured curriculum, making it one of the most successful AI study events on campus.

What We Achieved Together:

1. Practical Training on Google Cloud:

The study jam kicked off with hands-on guidance, where participants redeemed Google Cloud credits and received a detailed orientation on navigating Google Cloud tools. Students learned to work with core cloud functionalities, from computing services to cloud storage, and began engaging with Google Skill Badges in a supportive, peer-driven setting. These guided sessions demystified complex cloud functions and gave students the confidence to explore Google Cloud’s offerings, laying a solid foundation in cloud computing.

2. Peer Learning and Mentor-Led Sessions:

Throughout the cohort, mentor-led panels played a crucial role in supporting students through the process of learning and applying new concepts. Each mentor provided individualized attention, helping students solve technical challenges, check progress, and dive deeper into each module. The personalized mentorship style created a comfortable learning environment, with mentors available for one-on-one questions and peer-to-peer discussions that encouraged collaboration.

3. Engaging Modules and Google Skill Badges:

The curriculum covered a range of Google Cloud and generative AI tools, ensuring students gained practical experience in real-world applications. Highlights included:

• Google Cloud Fundamentals: Basics of Compute, Storage, and Networking.

• Data and Analytics: Training on Looker, Dataplex, and Workspace Tools.

• Application Development: Introduction to API Gateway, App Engine, and Cloud Functions.

• AI and Machine Learning: Modules on Cloud Speech API, Cloud Vision API, and AI-powered tools.

• Generative AI Applications: Advanced work on Vertex AI, prompt design, and building generative AI apps with Gemini and Streamlit.

These modules included hands-on labs and practical tasks, pushing participants to earn multiple Google Cloud Skill Badges by the end of the program.

4. Interactive Sessions and Community Bonding:

The cohort’s structure emphasized collaboration, with activities designed to foster teamwork and a strong sense of community. Students engaged in small-group sessions, sharing insights and working through labs together. This group dynamic made the event not just a learning experience but also a memorable opportunity to connect with fellow students and mentors, building relationships that will extend beyond the cohort.

5. Consistent Progress and Support System:

To promote consistent learning, mentors sent daily reminders and checked in on students’ progress. This kept participants motivated and reduced last-minute stress, ensuring that learning was steady, manageable, and effective. With frequent engagement, the mentors could offer immediate feedback and guidance, which helped participants stay on track to complete each skill badge without rushing.

Outcomes and Future Opportunities:

By the end of the four days, REC students had completed various Google Cloud Skill Badges, giving them a solid technical foundation in cloud computing and generative AI. These badges now serve as valuable certifications that enhance students’ readiness for internships and roles in the tech industry.

The “Build with AI: Generative AI Study Jam” has not only elevated students’ technical abilities but has also positioned Rajalakshmi Engineering College as a distinguished institution within the Google Developer Groups community in India. This success underscores GDG REC’s commitment to offering students unique, hands-on learning opportunities, and paves the way for continued partnerships and advanced workshops in cloud and AI technologies.