What is a Hackathon?

A hackathon is a small period of time, usually from 12 to 48 hours, where teams come together to build coding projects. Projects can be built from scratch or thought out before the event, but all the coding is done during the timespan of the hackathon.

What do the teams look like?

Teams can be organized from 1 to 4 people. They can be made before the event or when it starts, and participants can be randomly assigned to teams if they want.

Are there prizes?

Yes! First and second place teams will win prizes. In the past, first place won Apple Airpods! The prizes for this year will be similar to years before.

What about free stuff?

Yes, WakeHacks loves swag! In the past, we’ve given away t-shirts, stickers, and themed notebooks. This year, we will be giving away buttons, stickers, and t-shirts! 😀

Do I have to be good at coding to participate?

Not at all. Anybody can participate, and there will be seminars showing participants coding techniques, ranging from introductory how-to’s to advanced cybersecurity methods.

What are the coding projects like?

Past examples include an application that tells you what the weather will be like, and recommends clothing for you to wear based on the weather.

Do I have to be a part of Wake Forest to participate?

Not at all! WakeHacks has always been inclusive and has hosted students from all over in past years. Due to the mainly virtual nature of the Hackathon this year, you don’t even have to leave your living room to participate!

Do I have to code for the entire duration of the event?

No! You can code for as little or as long as you’d like. WakeHacks is primarily for networking, improving your coding skills, and granting an outlet to have fun with others through coding.

What if I don’t have anything to turn in by the end?

That’s no problem. WakeHacks is a no-pressure environment, and above all else, meant for bonding and having a good time while coding. Participants are encouraged to submit whatever they have by the time the event is over, but not required to submit anything.

What does a virtual hackathon look like?

The WakeHacks team is working hard to make this year’s Hackathon the best it has ever been. Although there won’t be zombie dodgeball in ZSR, the seminars, group meetings, and community-building events will be similar to past years.