Ques. Please introduce yourselves.
Khushi: I'm Khushi, a Student of Maitreyi college from the batch of 2024, also One of the Founders of Uniway.
Lavanya: My name is Lavanya. I'm pursuing B.Com (Hons.) from Maitreyi college.
Vanshika: I'm Vanshika, and I completed my Sociology Honors at Maitreyi College in 2023.
Q: Can you break down what Uniway is and what it does for students?
Khushi: The idea for Uniway came when I was struggling with classes, especially in my first year when my dance society took up all my time. I barely knew the courses we had. In my second year, the hustle continued, and finding available classrooms for back-to-back lectures was such a challenge. One day, after a long search for an empty room, I wondered, “Why isn’t there an easier way to do this?”
We started talking to our teachers and realised they faced similar issues. That’s when we knew we had to do something. There was no existing solution, so despite our lack of coding experience, we decided to create an app. Gathering credible data for our research was challenging, and we faced a steep learning curve from the start. Uniway was born out of these frustrations. It’s an all-in-one app designed to simplify college life, whether you’re local to Delhi or from out of town. Uniway keeps you informed about everything from events to competitions. A unique feature is Sugamya, a navigation tool that ensures inclusivity by helping visually challenged students navigate campus.
We hit a roadblock since none of us had a technical background. That’s when Vanshika stepped in. She guided us through the coding and technical aspects. Lavanya also played a huge role in the app’s development, from uploading to deploying it.
Lavanya: Uniway is more than just a navigation tool; it’s about helping people grow, explore new interests, and even switch paths if they want. It’s something we’re proud to have built together, proving that with teamwork, you can tackle any challenge.
Q: How long did it take to build this app?
We’ve been working on it for about a year and a half now.
Q: How did you start building Uniway technically, and what programming languages did you use?
Vanshika: Initially, I wasn’t well-versed in the technical operations for a project of this scale. I first considered JavaScript since it was widely used, but we quickly realised it wouldn’t suit our needs within the timeframe. That led us to Flutter, which uses the Dart language specifically for app development. We paired Flutter with Google Firebase for backend database and authentication. For backend functionality, like society-specific posts and event management, we created a separate webpage using Python’s Django framework, linking it to a Postgres database for admin control and content management. So, our tech stack involved Dart (Flutter), Google Firebase, Postgres, and Django.
Q: How did you all manage to stay on the same page?
Lavanya: We knew our strengths and divided work accordingly. Even when we disagreed or felt overwhelmed, we backed each other up. It was never “you” or “I”; it was always “we.” That mindset kept things moving smoothly. For example, there were times when one of us wasn’t available, but the other always had things under control. Despite juggling competitions, research papers, and internships, we were aware that venting didn’t involve leaving each other
Q: What positions do each of you hold in Uniway?
Lavanya: We don’t have company designations like CEO or CFO. Both of us are the Founders, and Vanshika is our Chief Technical Officer, Chief Technical Head, and Co-Founder.
Q: Who came up with the name, and what does it mean?
Khushi: We brainstormed a lot of names, like “Ek Path” or “Ek,” but since the app is entirely in English, those names felt too poetic. We even considered “One Way” at one point. But then, in a quick 10-second decision, we landed on Uniway.
Lavanya: The name just made sense. When people hear “uni,” they either think of “one” or “university,” and “way” represents navigation or guidance. We wanted it to be a one-stop solution for everything—a single way to navigate college life. So, Uniway essentially means a university guide.
Q: What challenges did you face, and how did you tackle them?
Vanshika: The team you work with makes a huge difference, especially when you're new to something. I'd only done basic DSA problems and a few interviews, nothing close to building a full app. I actually told Khushi I might not be fit for the role, but her trust in me, along with the strength of the idea itself, kept me going. They gave me three to four months to get familiar with everything. Uday, who served as an advisor, guided me on what to learn and how to approach things. By the end of that period, I gained the confidence to build the app.
Our teachers were also very helpful in assisting us, particularly when it was difficult to get the original plan approved. To improve it, we conducted a lot of mock trials and presentations. The majority of the rejections occurred early on, making approval a significant obstacle, but we persisted.
We gathered information from various platforms like Instagram and held meetings with society heads to ensure accuracy. Our goal was to create a one-stop platform for university information.
Q: How did you incorporate such diverse features into one app?
Vanshika: The core idea and content structure came from Lavanya and Khushi, who had a clear vision for the app. While I focused on implementing the designs, we started with a skeletal layout that gradually evolved. For example, the notifications tab was a later addition after the app launch. Development was a year-long process, with features introduced bit by bit. About three to four months before launch, things picked up pace. We built a strong team members including Jiya, Jahnavi, Nishtha and Tavishi.
Q: Could you share an instance where you received encouraging feedback?
Lavanya: An instance of encouraging feedback was when a friend referred to our early interface as “Gaba Tracker,” which was playful but exciting. When our parents finally learned about the app, they were overjoyed. The most significant moment came when we presented to Smriti Ma’am, who praised our thought process despite our non-technical background and connected us with researchers and IIT graduates.
On launch day, my family couldn’t attend, but my uncle, after meeting one of the app's key figures, remarked that it was a huge achievement for us. Even with rejections from some teachers, others offered constructive feedback. This feedback, combined with validation from experts and supportive friends, made us realise that rejection is part of growth.
Q: How did you handle feedback and criticism?
Vanshika: I really appreciate Lavanya and Khushi’s support in handling feedback. If I was unable to attend a meeting, they would receive feedback on my behalf. When feedback did come, it was usually reasonable and manageable.
Different points of view were natural when there were so many people. Sometimes there may be divergent goals and opinions among teachers or team members. The conclusion arose through discussion and understanding. Overall, as a team, we managed feedback well.
Q: Did you face any conflicts with the team or teachers? If so, how did you manage it?
Vanshika: At times, our teacher would ask us to make last-minute changes. They are aware that it won't be simple for us, but it was done for our benefit . With Lavanya and Khushi, we had some differing opinions, but we always talked it out to reach a consensus. This collaborative approach minimised conflicts.
Q: Did you feel burned out at any point? How did you get through it?
Vanshika: Yes, definitely. When I started my job, balancing Uniway and work was challenging. But knowing how much we’d accomplished kept me motivated. When things got overwhelming, I reached out for support, and everyone was understanding. Having a dedicated team made a huge difference and helped me push through.
Q: What features of the app benefit students the most?
Lavanya: The app brings everything students need together in one place. It lists competitions, events, and fests, includes an alumni database for networking, a tab for student-led initiatives, and a notices section for important updates like admit cards or results. Essentially, it covers everything a student might need to stay informed and connected.
Q: What marketing techniques are you using, and how are students learning about it?
Lavanya: Our approach isn’t focused on promotions but on simplifying the user experience. We rely on Instagram and LinkedIn for outreach. The idea is to communicate that Uniway is a one-stop solution.
When we launched, our friends supported us by sharing stories across social media. Our Principal saw Uniway as a concrete concept and even considered formally integrating it into the college system, suggesting it as a requirement for all students. This support demonstrated the app’s potential impact as an essential tool for student life.
Ques: Now that the app is in its promotional stage, are you still handling it, or has it been handed over to the current technical team?Vanshika: As I prepare for my master’s, it has become difficult for me to dedicate the time I initially did. So, the current technical team is now handling the app's operations. I’m more in an advisory role, providing guidance whenever they need it. Since I developed the app, I have insights that might help them, but I'm not actively working on the code anymore.
Ques: Could you briefly outline your plans for the upcoming days?Lavanya: In the upcoming days, Khushi will be joining PwC, Vanshika is heading to the United Kingdom to pursue her master’s degree, and I will be starting at Deloitte.
Ques: What does the future for Uniway look like?Khushi: We haven’t given much thought to Uniway’s future beyond its current state. In the upgrading of the Uniway app we will not be able to give direct supervision. Honestly, we are concerned about Uniway’s future, especially since our time will soon be divided between jobs and other commitments.
Lavanya: In the future, we hope Maitreyi students will explore and become accustomed to using Uniway, not just for events but also for connecting with alumni and showcasing student achievements. While we may not always be there, the team and teachers, including Smriti Ma’am, will continue to manage it. As the app evolves, new features like timetables and navigation tools will be added based on user feedback. For now, our focus is on encouraging students to install and actively use the app. We plan to return in a year with improved features and updates because we recognize its importance.
Ques: How did this experience help you grow your computer science skills?Vanshika: Initially, I only knew Python, but working on this project expanded my skills significantly. One crucial aspect I learned was how to communicate technical concepts to non-technical people. Since I often had to explain our app’s development to teachers and the principal, who weren’t from a technical background, I adapted my communication style accordingly. This experience not only enhanced my technical skills but also developed my soft skills, which are essential for being an effective engineer. Additionally, working on this project enhanced my teamwork skills. I learned to accept and implement feedback, manage multiple tasks, and navigate different work styles. Overall, it taught me the value of commitment and proactive collaboration in a team environment.
Ques: What are your future aspirations in the field of computer science?Vanshika: Three years ago, if you had asked me this question, I would have replied that my ultimate goal is to become a lawyer. Two years ago: A professor of sociology, I would have said. As it happens, I work in technology. As you can see, I have not been able to implement the majority of my long-term plans. Thus, the aim is to rely on realistic short-term strategies and observe the results. But it appears that I will continue to study computer science.
Ques: Was there any feedback that made you proud of yourself about the app you built?Vanshika: A memorable moment was when we presented our app idea to Haritma ma’am and other faculty members. Initially, they had doubts about my background, which was expected. However, once the app was developed and things started looking good, I overheard them praising my work, noting that I had built this app without a technical background. Hearing them say that I was smart and capable was incredibly validating. This experience transformed my perception of my role; I didn’t even realise I was considered a co-founder until it was officially announced. The validation and recognition I received from Lavanya and Khushi exceeded my expectations and meant a lot to me.
Ques: How is this app going to benefit you or prepare you for the future?Vanshika: Starting out in computer science, I encountered numerous theoretical concepts that often left me questioning their real-world applications. With this app, I was able to bridge that gap; it allowed me to apply what I learned in a practical setting. Beyond enhancing my resume, this experience has deepened my understanding of how theoretical knowledge translates into real-life scenarios within companies and organisations. It has prepared me to better navigate the tech industry by showing me the actual implications of the skills I’ve acquired.
Ques: What would you say to new developers in the field of computer science?Vanshika: To new developers entering the field of computer science, I’d say: don’t give up! It’s common to feel confident at first, but challenges will arise that may test your resolve. When you encounter difficulties, it’s okay to take a moment to regroup, but don’t let it discourage you from continuing. Remember that everyone’s journey is unique, shaped by different circumstances and constraints. Focus on your progress and don’t compare yourself to others; you are doing well just by staying committed to your path.
Ques: What about the future of the app? Is it going to get new features or expand more? What does the future for Uniway look like?Lavanya & Khushi: We encourage Maitreyi students to engage with Uniway not just for events but also for networking with alumni and showcasing their achievements. Looking ahead, even when we’re not there, our teachers and the dedicated team we’ve assembled will play a crucial role in its development. We plan to introduce new features and updates, similar to what you see on platforms like Instagram.
We’ll be gathering feedback through surveys to refine our services. Future enhancements might include things like timetables and improved navigation, plus information on canteen offerings. We’re excited to collaborate with Smiti Ma’am and her team to take Uniway to the next level.
We know it might take a year to really gauge how students are using the app. After that, we aim to come back with updates and features based on actual user needs. If there are any issues or areas for improvement, we want to tackle those before introducing anything new.
The next one to two years will be crucial for assessing Uniway’s performance and its appeal to other institutions. We drew inspiration from colleges that have their own apps with a variety of features, and we wanted to create a tool that truly serves our community.
In short, the future of Uniway will depend on its ongoing performance and user engagement. We’re optimistic and excited to see where it goes.
Question: Is the app handed over to another team to manage?
Khushi: We’re excited to embark on our professional journeys after graduation, but we’ve built a dedicated team that will take over the Uniway project. It will always hold a special place in our hearts, like a cherished child.
The new team has been with us since the project’s inception and has seen it evolve since launch day. They’ve worked hard to meet deadlines and have been crucial in Uniway’s mission to provide real-time information. It’s essential that they are well-equipped to manage the demands of this initiative.
I also want to take a moment to thank our teachers, Kritika Ma’am and Sonal Ma’am, for their continued support. Their help in facilitating communication with the principal was invaluable, especially given their understanding of our personalities, which made our interactions more nuanced.
Securing our teachers’ support wasn’t easy; our unconventional approach sometimes led to scepticism about our project’s seriousness. However, we believe in the team we’ve assembled and are confident they’ll excel in their roles. They’re already doing great work across various areas, from research and operations to timely social media updates.
We’re hopeful this momentum will continue into the future.
Question: Is there something you would want to say to the users of Uniway as founders?
Khushi and Lavanya: We strongly encourage everyone to take full advantage of Uniway. This platform is specifically designed for students and can significantly enhance your resume through opportunities like placements, competitions, and team involvement. Embracing Uniway will benefit your future prospects.
Our vision was to create a platform with diverse features that support your professional development, and I believe we’ve achieved that. When you download the app, I hope you see our commitment and how it can aid your journey.
Reflecting on my own experience at Shaheed Sukhdev College, I faced scepticism due to my entrance exam score. I later realised the importance of actively seeking opportunities, like internships and competitions. My breakthrough came when my team placed second in a Business Studies Case Competition, which filled me with pride.
We encourage you to download Uniway and seize the opportunities it offers. The support from our faculty has been crucial, and Maitreyi College is dedicated to fostering student engagement. I believe Uniway can thrive thanks to your involvement and the continued support from our college community.
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