In our fast-paced, tech-based world, everyone is looking to become the next Mark Zuckerberg. Innovative technology and applications are revolutionizing the way we interact and live, thanks in most part to young intellectuals like our own Hatters. Therefore, in order to enable our students to live up to their boundless potential, Stetson University is proud to present the first weekend-long hackathon on campus, Sudo HackStetson. Join us this weekend, April 9-10, starting at 8 a.m. for free food, activities and the chance to create the next tech phenomenon.

What is Sudo HackStetson? It is the opportunity for young “hackers” or tech enthusiasts to show off their ideas to professionals in the industry and collaborate with their peers of similar interests. Participants will spend the day and night learning how to code, making their concepts into digital reality.

The name for the event, “Sudo,” comes from a UNIX command line term of “super user do” which allows the hacker to do administrative tasks while coding. According to head organizer of Sudo, Katie Porterfield, the name also perfectly fits Stetson University. “We play on sudo as ‘stetson university do’ and by having our official name being Sudo HackStetson, like a command.”

Sudo HackStetson is sponsored by Stetson Hacker’s Space (SHS) and Major League Hacking (MLH). SHS is only a second year club, but its members have already represented Stetson across the country at different events. The group worked to set up this first hackathon here at Stetson with the help of MLH, whose mission is to provide young innovators with experience in coding.

This year, MLH will sponsor over 200 hackathons and teach over 65,000 students valuable computer science skills. Not only that, but participants in Sudo HackStetson will have the chance to show off their ideas to tabling tech sponsors, which may lead to future internships and job opportunities. “Many apps made at hackathons often become business, or bought by larger companies,” says Porterfield. The infamous Facebook ‘like’ button is a hackathon invention.

Do not fear though. You do not have to be a computer science major, an aspiring entrepreneur or a techie to participate in Sudo HackStetson. Even if you have never written a line of code before, every Stetson student and graduate within the last year is invited to attend and learn how to hack. The purpose of this beginner-friendly event is to connect inspiring young minds with experienced mentors and innovate together. Many individuals come to hackathons without much experience, so don’t feel intimidated. Even if you think you can’t code, you will walk away from this event a true hacker.

So join us this weekend, April 9-10. The event is free for all participants, with meals and (energy) drinks provided throughout the hackathon. Make sure to bring a toothbrush and sleeping bag along with your laptop, as sleeping under your table is all part of the hacking experience. Invite your friends to form a team, or simply meet others that share your passion for technology at the event. Visit the Sudo HackStetson website to register and get a complete schedule.

By Kerstin Cook