Freedom through hacking:HEROthon seeking to solve problems through three-day event at Draper University in San Mateo

Draper University is holding its HEROthon, a hackathon at its downtown San Mateo campus July 5-7, and is challenging participants to develop projects that incorporate America and freedom at the core. 

More than 200 people have already signed up to Draper University’s second public hackathon, program coordinator Alex Yates said. 

“This is going to be the biggest [hackathon] we’ve done yet. I’m super excited to see what projects are built and we’re going to have a great time doing it,” Yates said. 

A hackathon is an event where coders, entrepreneurs and designers come together to solve a problem. Sometimes split into teams, each team competes to tackle the problem before presenting their solution. At Draper University’s last hackathon, participants were tasked with finding an innovative way to incorporate technology into gaming and entertainment. The winning group came up with VRFest, in which artists can utilize virtual reality technology so that fans can watch their concerts all around the world via virtual reality goggles. 

Hackathons typically last a few days and teams continue working through the night. For this reason, Draper University has sleeping accommodations for those participating.

While this hackathon is America themed, Yates said, “Participants can build whatever they want, as long as it incorporates some aspect of freedom.”  

High school student Calix Huang plans to participate this upcoming weekend.

“I don’t give much thought to the theme,” he said. “I’m excited to collaborate with my teammates.”

Huang said he constantly searches online for hackathons to participate in and explained that, as a home school student, hackathons are a great way to meet like-minded people and share ideas. 

In addition to hacking, there will be events throughout the weekend to celebrate the Fourth and to network with other participants. 

On Sunday, teams will pitch their projects to Draper University ventures and Draper University associates for the chance to win prizes. The judging session will be followed by a pool party and barbecue. 

The hackathon will be at 44 E. Third Ave., San Mateo, CA 94401. Tickets are $10. You can book your spot at eventbrite.com/e/hackathon-draper-university-tickets-61528513440.