What is SoHacks?
SoHacks is a 24 hour coding marathon engineered
to help you learn how to code. Make your app,
website, or machine a reality with the help of
experienced mentors, structured classes, and
like-minded peers.
Ever had that app, website, or machine you wanted to build but didn't know where to start? Have you ever wanted to jump into the world of programming and show off an awesome product to your friends? Now is your chance. The School's Out Hackathon is an annual hackathon in San Antonio designed to help students take their first steps into the world of computer science and programming. You'll have tons of mentors and like-minded peers to help you through the process of making your dream into a reality.
Why Should I Program?
I think everyone should learn how to program a computer, because it teaches you how to think.
- Steve Jobs
The power of computer science in a growing, tech based job market is undeniable. Thousands of college students each year are chosing STEM and programming related degrees to help them make their own apps and products or join companies in profitable software engineering jobs. Why not start learning now?
SoHacks in the Media
SoHacks has appeared in Refocused Magazine, as "Texas' largest high school hackathon", as well as in the San Antonio Express News, and KSAT 12, SoHacks has also recieved the Bizjournal tech advocate in an organization award.
SoHacks' director Julia Singer has also presented as education correspondent presentor for SXSW.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this hackathon you speak of?
A hackathon (also known as a hack day, hackfest or codefest) is an event in which computer programmers and others involved in software development, including graphic designers, interface designers and project managers, collaborate intensively on software projects.
What do you mean by "hack"?
Don't worry. It's just a bunch of people getting together and coding. Nothing like the Defcon convention which is specifically for the purpose of hacking into computers. A hackathon is just a way to get people together to make awesome programs.
But I don't know how to program.
We will have a bunch of workshops aimed to help inexperienced people learn a few lines of code. Plus you can talk to the awesome people attending to learn more.
Who is eligible to attend?
As long as you are in high school with an interest in programming, you are welcome. Just bring us some form of ID and you should be all set. If you are a college/graduate student and are interested in being a mentor, email us for more information.
How much does it cost to attend?
It's free! Food and workshops are free to attend and laptops will be provided by special request if you do not have access to one email us.
What to I need to bring?
A laptop and awesome ideas. We provide everything else (food, energy drinks, and so on). You may also want to bring a sleeping bag, since you may be programming well into the night!
Can I work on an existing project?
Sorry but everything must be new. But do feel free to work on ideas, design, and branding beforehand.
What can I make?
Anything that pertains to technology. As long as it's legal and ethical, you're good. You can check out some of our previous hacks at Challengepost.com where all hacks that were presented last year have been submitted.
Sponsors
These are the people
who make SoHacks possible. Each year, we want to make
sure that our attendees get the best quality event
possible. Sponsors are the people who play one of the
largest roles in that. Take a look at our sponsorship
packet to see how your company can help us put on this
event. All sponsors will have their logo placed on the
website and bring developers to help out and advertise
their product. We also accept in-kind donations.
Email Us for
more information.
