Benjamin Shawki
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Higher Education at Hogeschool Leiden

EducationHogeschool LeidenComputer ScienceSoftware EngineeringProgramming

My Informatica Program

I began my journey at Hogeschool Leiden in September 2017, pursuing a degree in Informatica (Computer Science). While my education path has been non-traditional—with periods of study from 2017 and 2022-2025—this program has been instrumental in developing my theoretical knowledge and practical skills in software engineering.

Core Technical Skills Developed

The Informatica program at Hogeschool Leiden has equipped me with a comprehensive set of technical skills spanning multiple areas of computing:

Programming Languages and Paradigms

  • TypeScript and JavaScript for web development
  • Java for enterprise application development
  • Python for scripting and data analysis
  • C and C++ for systems programming
  • VHDL for hardware description and FPGA programming
  • Assembly language for ARM architecture
  • Go for concurrent programming
  • Rust for systems and embedded development
  • Kernel programming and low-level systems development
  • Vectorgraphis with C++, OpenGL, and Vulkan

Web Development

  • Modern frontend frameworks including React.js, Angular, and Next.js
  • HTML, CSS, and related technologies like Tailwind CSS
  • RESTful API design and implementation
  • Spring Boot for backend development

Software Engineering Practices

  • Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) principles
  • Software Design Patterns
  • Test-driven development and software testing methodologies
  • Version control with Git
  • CI/CD pipelines implementation
  • Functional programming concepts

Database Technologies

  • SQL and relational database design
  • PostgreSQL implementation and optimization
  • Database Management Systems (DBMS)

Infrastructure and DevOps

  • Containerization with Docker
  • Orchestration with Kubernetes
  • Linux administration
  • Windows environment management

Applied Learning and Projects

The program's emphasis on applied learning has been particularly valuable. Through various projects, I've had the opportunity to:

  • Design and implement full-stack web applications
  • Develop systems using microservices architecture
  • Create data processing pipelines
  • Design and optimize database schemas
  • Implement automated testing frameworks
  • Configure and deploy applications to cloud environments

These projects have reinforced theoretical concepts with practical experience, preparing me for real-world software engineering challenges.

Specializations and Electives

As part of my education, I've pursued several specialized areas that align with my interests and career goals:

Machine Learning

  • Fundamentals of machine learning algorithms
  • Data preprocessing and model evaluation
  • Practical applications in software systems
  • Integration of machine learning models into applications
  • Use of libraries such as TensorFlow and PyTorch
  • Data visualization techniques
  • Data analysis with Python

IT Consultancy

  • Requirements gathering and analysis
  • Solution architecture
  • Client communication and project management

Technical Writing

  • Documentation creation and maintenance
  • API documentation
  • Technical specifications and requirements
  • LaTeX for technical documentation
  • Markdown for documentation

Minor in Embedded Systems

To complement my software engineering skills, I pursued a Minor in Embedded Systems at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences from September 2024 to January 2025. This minor has broadened my expertise to include:

  • Embedded systems development
  • VHDL and FPGA programming
  • STM32 and ESP32 microcontroller programming
  • Rust for embedded applications
  • ARM architecture and assembly language
  • Real-time systems and multitask scheduling
  • Systems engineering principles

Special Project: Interactive Glasses at TU Delft

As part of my Minor in Embedded Systems, I worked on a special project for Delft University of Technology from September 2024 to January 2025. This project involved developing a smoke beacon system that simulates fogged areas by impairing vision, used for training fire safety responders. Key technologies and skills utilized included:

  • STM32 microcontroller programming
  • C programming for embedded systems
  • Systems engineering
  • ESP32 microcontroller integration
  • Technical documentation with LaTeX

Collaborative Learning Environment

Beyond technical skills, Hogeschool Leiden has provided a collaborative learning environment that has enhanced my ability to:

  • Work effectively in development teams
  • Communicate technical concepts clearly
  • Manage projects and deadlines
  • Give and receive constructive feedback
  • Adapt to changing requirements and technologies

Ongoing Education

My education at Hogeschool Leiden continues to evolve as I approach graduation. The combination of formal education, practical projects, and specialized minors has created a strong foundation for my career in software engineering, with a particular focus on web development, systems programming, and embedded systems.

This educational journey has prepared me not just with specific technical skills, but with the ability to learn, adapt, and grow in an ever-changing technological landscape—a skill that will remain relevant throughout my professional career.