A Hackathon is an interactive activity or an “invention marathon”.  Anyone who has an interest in technology attends a hackathon to learn, build and share their creations over the course of a weekend in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. You don’t have to be a programmer and you certainly don’t have to be majoring in Computer Science. Hacks provide a venue to think out of the box, experiment with new technologies, ask questions, make mistakes, learn something new, and have fun.  

Do I have to be a programmer to participate? Or have computer coding skills?

The Huskie Hack is open to ALL majors and disciplines. A health and wellness Hackathon opens the door to those interested in the physical, mental, emotional and environmental aspects of health.  How does health or wellness impact a community?  What are the economic, political, sociocultural aspects of the health problem you are addressing?  This event is interdisciplinary.  Individuals with interest in health, big data, medicine, physical therapy, community development, social work, psychology, sociology,  biology, art, and engineering are all encouraged to attend. 

What if I am just a beginning programmer or don’t have any programming experience? Can I still be part of this event?

Yes. The Huskie Hack is not just about coding. It is about creating, utilizing skill sets you have as an artist, coder, maker, developer, project manager, historian, scientist, etc.  No expertise is required. While having a programming class or two will be helpful, it is not necessary. This event is about visualizing the idea, being enthusiastic about making it work, collaborating with the team and using the tools to help realize your repurposed, reimagined idea. Everyone will be learning, trying and doing. Graphic and artistic design, media, and team building skills will also be key to creating an awesome game. Want to play with wearable technology?  The Oculus Rift?  See a 3-D printer in action?  This is the time to experiment and have fun.

How much does it cost?

Unbelievably, it doesn’t cost you anything. Zilch. We will provide meals, drinks, and snacks for the entirety of the event. Registration is required. 

Why should I attend?

Meet and work with awesome people from around the region, build cool stuff to put on your portfolio and/or resume, network with tech firms, and enjoy free food, free swag, free fun! 

Can students from middle or high school attend?

Yes!  Please share the event with other students and teachers because we’ve found many offer extra credit for classes going as a group! If you are under 18, we do require your parent or guardian’s permission to attend and will contact you if you are accepted for more details. Download the parental consent form here.

 What else should I bring?

Bring your laptop, phone, chargers, and any other electronics you can’t live without. Feel free to bring a sleeping bag if you want to catch some zzz's, and, of course, your enthusiasm to address issues of health and wellness.  Remember, a valid student ID is required.

When should I show up and when should I leave?

Plan to arrive at the Hackathon Saturday morning, November 4, 2017, at 11:00 AM, when registration opens. Have that student ID and ticket handy. The event ends somewhere around 2:00 PM on Sunday, November 5th after the awards are distributed.

Where is the event held?  What are my transportation and parking options for the event?  

The event will be held at the center of NIU's camps in the Holmes Student Center.  Attendees are responsible for arranging their own transportation.   Parking on campus is free. 

All submissions must be uploaded to DEVPost by 6:00 AM on Sunday, November 5, 2017.

Please note that there is often a delay in uploading, so plan to begin your upload 15-minutes prior to the deadline.  Loading at 5:59 AM may not allow your entry to process in a timely manner disqualifying you from the competition.  Planning for uploading issues is part of the learning process and competition.

Late submissions will NOT be reconsidered due to participant's lack of timing or issues in loading their project.