So my programming contest is tomorrow. It's going to be 3 hours long, with a grand total of 5 questions.
First two are always super easy, and the others I've seen from the previous contests range from easy in theory to absolutely boggling to me. No idea how well I'll do.
I'm forced to do it in java (ew) because that's the only language my teacher can check, and on top of that all the questions are also marked on efficiency.
If I do really well (1st or second in my province) I'll get 100 bucks and a plaque. And if I place in the top 20 overall I'll get invited to the University of Waterloo to do another contest. That one requires that you use C, C++, or Pascal.
And if I get a silver medal there I'll get another $100, or if I get gold I'll get another $300.
ON TOP OF THAT. A good chunk of the gold medalists get to go on a trip to Italy to do another programming contest.