From ice rinks to algorithms

At 14, Benjamin Rudolph left his home in Basel, Switzerland, to pursue his passion for hockey in Canada. This included two years in Penticton and two years in Calgary before he returned home. However, Calgary left a lasting impression and eventually drew him back — not for hockey this time, but for a new adventure: studying computer science at Mount Royal University (MRU) and exploring how technology can spark meaningful change.

“Calgary became a natural choice for my university studies due to the amazing friends I’d made and the vibrant opportunities in the city,” he shares.

Finding passion through technology

“I’ve always been fascinated by the potential of technology to solve complex problems and make meaningful impacts,” Rudolph explains.

After exploring a few options, MRU’s Bachelor of Science — Computer Science program stood out for its hands-on approach and small class sizes.

“At MRU, you’re not just a number; the professors genuinely care about getting to know you, and many of them go out of their way to support you academically and personally,” he says. “One professor became a friend I exchange memes with and another is someone I can sit down with to discuss everything from coding to the meaning of life.”

Rudolph’s passion for tech came alive through projects, including a robotics course where he designed a laser system for his two cats. Combining hardware and software, the device featured a camera, treat dispenser and remote interface, allowing him to interact with his pets in real-time even when he wasn’t home.

“That project was a game-changer,” he says. “It showed me how creativity and tech can come together to improve everyday life — even for cats.”

Innovating for impact

Rudolph’s belief in using technology to tackle real-world problems led to one of his most ambitious projects: developing an AI-powered chatbot for hotel staff. A collaborative effort with one of his classmates, the chatbot “automates routine tasks and answers training-related questions.”

”I relied heavily on the skills I learned at MRU — such as project management, research and development — to bring this concept to life,” Rudolph explains. “We spent a lot of time researching different use cases and exploring various approaches to building the chatbot, ensuring it was both practical and adaptable for the hospitality industry.”

The project was temporarily on hold to allow Rudolph to focus on his studies, but now that his degree is complete, he says he’s excited to dive back into the work and continue refining and expanding its capabilities.

"Technology has the power to bridge gaps and improve lives," he says.

Building connections beyond the classroom

For Rudolph, the sense of community he found at MRU extended far beyond academics. "I met my two best friends during my third year, and they’ve been a cornerstone of my university experience," he shares.

Late-night study sessions, shared meals and heartfelt conversations helped create a strong support system. “University can be challenging, but having good friends — shoutout to Bella and Aly — made all the difference,” he adds.

When Rudolph isn’t immersed in tech projects, you’ll often find him in the mountains. Calgary’s proximity to the Rockies has been a source of balance, providing opportunities for skiing and hiking. “The mountains help me recharge and gain perspective. It’s absolutely amazing to have world-class outdoor adventures so close to campus and it reminds me a lot of Switzerland. It makes Calgary feel much more like home as well,” he says.

A bright future ahead

With his time at MRU coming to a close, Rudolph is ready to take on the tech world. His immediate goal is to work as a software engineer, but his long-term vision is bigger: leading projects that create tangible societal change.

“Whether it’s through creating efficient workflows, developing AI solutions or improving accessibility, I want to contribute to projects that have real societal value.” he says. “Helping others means creating tools or systems that simplify lives, empower communities and address global challenges.”

For those considering a similar path, Rudolph’s advice is simple: “Embrace every opportunity. Get involved, build connections and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Yes, work hard — but also enjoy the journey. This is one of the last times in your life where you have the freedom to explore, learn and grow in such a unique way. Make the most of it.”