Theme: Horizons
Dates: October 25–26, 2025
Location: Boston College — 245 Beacon Street
Host: Boston College Computer Science Society (BCCSS)

Horizons is about building at the edge of what’s possible. From AI and machine learning to novel interfaces and responsible data practices, we’re asking teams to explore new frontiers and ship something that nudges the future forward. Your project should either:

• pioneer a new solution to a real problem, or

• re‑imagine an existing experience using cutting‑edge tech.

Who: First‑time hackers, beginners, and students new to code/design.
Focus: Concept clarity, creativity, and a scrappy prototype (mockups/wireframes welcome!).

What we’re looking for

• Concept & Innovation: Fresh ideas that embody the Horizons theme.

• Feasibility & Impact: A realistic path from concept → working product.

• Presentation & Storytelling: Clear problem framing, demo, and future vision.

• Design & UX: Thoughtful flows/wireframes; potential for user delight.

Judging Criteria (Spark) — 100 pts

• Originality (25)

• Clarity of Problem/Solution (25)

• Potential Impact (25)

• Creativity in Using Emerging Tech (15)

• Design & UX (10)

Submission Checklist (Spark)

• SUBMIT A LINK TO YOUR GITHUB

• PRESENT USING THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED BY EMAIL + A LIVE DEMO (5 MINUTES MAX)

Who: Intermediate/advanced builders ready to ship a functional prototype.
Focus: Technical depth, product thinking, and real‑world viability.

What we’re looking for

• Technical Execution: Clean architecture, thoughtful trade‑offs, meaningful use of AI/APIs/ML or other emerging tech.

• User‑Centric Design: Clear JTBD, UX that solves a tangible pain point.

• Scalability & Feasibility: How it could evolve beyond the hackathon.

• Vision & Impact: Ties to societal, environmental, or campus/community benefit.

Judging Criteria (Pioneer) — 100 pts

• Technical Complexity & Execution (35)

• Originality & Innovative Use of Tech (20)

• UX & Product Quality (20)

• Feasibility, Scalability & Impact (20)

• Pitch/Demo Quality (5)

Submission Checklist (Pioneer)

• SUBMIT A LINK TO YOUR GITHUB

• PRESENT USING THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED BY EMAIL + A LIVE DEMO (5 MINUTES MAX)

• TBD
  TBD