Over 270 students gathered at Georgetown University’s Healey Family Student Center for the annual HoyaHacks coding competition. The 36-hour hackathon, hosted by Georgetown since 2015, invited high school and college students from across the country to create coding projects that solve real-world problems.
HoyaHacks featured four thematic tracks sponsored by various companies, including Cloudforce-Microsoft AI, Engie for environmental solutions, Collins Aerospace for simulation hacks, and Cipher Tech Solutions for digital forensics. The participants had the opportunity to win prizes such as tablets, company swag, and even a chance for a full-time software engineering position.
The event was praised for bringing together students from diverse backgrounds, including both first-time participants and seasoned hackathon veterans. Representatives from companies like Cloudflare, Microsoft, HP Federal, and Major League Hacking also presented at the opening ceremony, providing valuable insights and inspiration.
HoyaHacks not only focused on coding but also offered professional workshops, networking opportunities with companies, and mentorship from experienced peers. The organizers ensured the students had access to free food and energy drinks to keep their energy levels up throughout the event.
One of the key aspects highlighted by participants was the open-ended nature of HoyaHacks, which allowed students to showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills. Students coming from various disciplines such as psychology, finance, and marketing found the hackathon to be an excellent platform to explore new ideas and potential career paths.
Georgetown’s interim chief information officer emphasized the event’s significance in bridging computer science with social good. He encouraged the participants to think about the broader context of how their projects could positively impact society.
HoyaHacks, registered as part of Major League Hacking, has been a major player in the hackathon scene, hosting over 3,000 students in its history. The organizers expressed their commitment to include high school students in the event, allowing them to engage with the local technology community and gain valuable experience.
One winning team’s project—an AI chatbot designed to answer prospective students’ questions about Georgetown—was so impressive that they were in discussions with the university’s chief information officer to implement their solution on the official website.
HoyaHacks continues to grow each year, with the organizers aiming to eventually make it one of the largest hackathons in the world. The event is a testament to the enthusiasm and talent of young coders who are eager to make a positive impact on the world through their skills.
In conclusion, HoyaHacks brought together students from across the nation to participate in a 36-hour coding challenge. With a focus on solving real-world problems, the event provided a platform for students to showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills. Additionally, the hackathon fostered collaboration, networking, and mentorship opportunities, while also emphasizing the importance of computer science for social good. HoyaHacks continues to be a success year after year, with plans to expand its reach and impact in the future.
