About the challenge
Go from idea to launch in one week.
iSTEM@Stevens Hacks is a week-long, virtual sprint designed to empower the next generation of problem-solvers, builders, and creators.
This event brings together high school students from diverse backgrounds to tackle real-world challenges using cutting-edge technology, creativity, and teamwork. Whether you're an experienced coder, a creative thinker, or just passionate about solving big problems, this hackathon is your platform to shine.
Over the course of a week, participants will ideate, build, and pitch solutions addressing impactful themes such as AI for good, sustainability, and the future of learning. With support from mentors, access to AI-powered tools, and workshops tailored for young innovators, this challenge offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience, develop new skills, and connect with like-minded peers.
Event Timing
Day 1: Saturday, March 1, 2025 – Kickoff & Orientation
2:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Welcome and event overview.
2:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Introduction to themes and problem statements.
3:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Team formation (random or interest-based breakout rooms).
3:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Ideation workshop (brainstorming techniques and Q&A).
Day 2: Sunday, March 2, 2025 – Refining Ideas & User Research
3:00 PM – 3:15 PM: Brief session on "How to validate ideas."
3:15 PM – 4:30 PM: Open office hours: Mentors assist teams with idea refinement and user research strategies.
4:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Submission of finalized project ideas (one-paragraph summary).
Day 3: Monday, March 3, 2025 – Prototyping Kickoff
6:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Workshop: "Using AI Tools for Rapid Prototyping."
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Open build session and office hours for hands-on assistance.
Day 4: Tuesday, March 4, 2025 – Midpoint Check-In
6:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Workshop: "Building an MVP (Minimum Viable Product)."
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Team progress updates (2-minute check-ins per team).
8:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Open build session and troubleshooting.
Day 5: Wednesday, March 5, 2025 – Troubleshooting & Advanced Support
6:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Debugging session: Common challenges and solutions.
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Open build session and office hours for troubleshooting and feedback.
Day 6: Thursday, March 6, 2025 – Storytelling & Presentation Skills
6:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Workshop: "Crafting a Winning Pitch" (storytelling, design, and delivery tips).
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Mock pitches in breakout rooms with mentor feedback.
8:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Wrap-up and Q&A on improving presentations.
Day 7: Friday, March 7, 2025 – Final Touches and Submission Deadline
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM: Open office hours: Teams polish prototypes and finalize pitch decks.
11:59 PM: Submission deadline for all projects (demo video, code repo, pitch deck, and documentation).
Day 8: Saturday, March 8, 2025 – Final Pitch Day
2:00 PM – 2:15 PM: Opening remarks and review of judging criteria.
2:15 PM – 4:15 PM: Final presentations (3-minute pitch + 2-minute Q&A per team).
4:15 PM – 4:30 PM: Judges deliberate.
4:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Awards ceremony and closing remarks.
Get started
Getting started is easy!
Sign Up on Devpost: Pot invitation, sign-up or join a team and familiarize yourself with the hackathon's themes and schedule.
Attend the Kickoff: Meet fellow participants, hear from inspiring speakers, and dive into the ideation process.
Leverage Resources: Take advantage of AI tools, workshops, and daily office hours to turn your ideas into impactful solutions.
Start Building: Collaborate with your team to design, prototype, and refine your project. Remember, creativity and problem-solving are key!
Pitch Your Vision: End the week by presenting your solution to a panel of judges, showcasing your innovation and storytelling skills.
This is an increadible opportunity to learn, create, and lead. Ready to make an impact? Let’s get started!
