← theme →

PARADISE BEGINS HERE

At Boston College, we are called to "set the world aflame" through acts of service, leadership, and innovation. But before we can ignite global change, we must start with our own communities. Paradise Begins Here is a challenge to create solutions that make a tangible difference in our local surroundings, knowing that the flames of positive change can spread from one neighborhood to the next. Whether it's improving local education, building sustainable initiatives, or fostering inclusive communities, paradise begins with small, purposeful actions right here at home.

Subthemes

Sustainable Living

Creating eco-friendly solutions for a greener, healthier future.

Inclusive Communities

Fostering belonging and ensuring everyone’s voice is heard.

Neighborhood Health

Addressing the physical and mental well-being of the local population.

Local Education

Providing tools and platforms for enriching educational opportunities in the community.

Community Safety

Innovating ways to make our local spaces safer and more connected.

Small Business Support

Empowering local entrepreneurs and building strong economies at the neighborhood level.

Potential Project Directions

Sustainability Apps: Develop apps or tools to encourage eco-friendly living at the local level, like waste reduction or community-driven recycling programs.
Community Volunteer Networks: Build a platform that connects people to local volunteer opportunities, helping neighborhoods grow stronger together.
Neighborhood Well-Being Dashboard: Create tools to monitor and improve key aspects of local life, from public health to safety and happiness.
Local Skill Exchange: Launch a system where neighbors can exchange services and skills, strengthening community bonds.
Revitalizing Hometown Heritage: Design ways to preserve local history or enhance the cultural footprint of your community.

← schedule →

Important Times

Workshops

Social Activities

Sponsor Tables

Meals

Saturday 10/5

Sign In

11:30 am - 12 pm | 245 Beacon St. 3rd Floor

Opening Ceremony

12 pm - 12:30 pm | 245 Beacon St. Room 501

Lunch

1 pm - 1:30 pm | 245 Beacon St. 3rd Floor

Careers In Tech Panel

3 pm - 4 pm | 245 Beacon St. Room 501

Natural Language Processing Workshop

5 pm - 6 pm | 245 Beacon St. Room 501

Dinner

7 pm - 7:30 pm | 245 Beacon St. 3rd Floor

Sunday 10/6

Breakfast

8:30 am - 9:00 am | 245 Beacon St. 1st Floor

Project Submission Deadline

12:30 pm | Devpost

Project Showcase

12:30 pm - 1:30 pm | 245 Beacon St. Room 107

Winners Announced

2:00 pm | 245 Beacon St. Room 107

← faq →

Will there be food provided?

Absolutely! We are providing lunch and dinner on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday – check the schedule for specifics.

Where can my team and I work?

Prior to 5pm on Saturday, we ask that you work above the second floor of 245 Beacon St. After 5pm, you can work anywhere in the building.

What do I do if I need help?

You can always ask for help in the HTH channel on Slack or come to the HTH HQ in 245 Beacon St. Room 501. We also have mentors and volunteers available throughout the event to help you with any questions or issues you may have.

Where do I sleep?

While coding can be fun, we want you to get some rest when needed! Feel free to go back to your dorm/apartment to sleep or you can stay overnight in Schiller if you're feeling hardcore. There are no restrictions on where you can sleep, but we recommend bringing a sleeping bag and pillow if you plan on staying overnight.

Do I have to stay for the full 24 hours?

Not at all – come to hack for as long or as short as you want!

What project should I make?

We have exciting themes for your projects, and the top three teams will win a prize. Don't feel any pressure to make a perfect project, submission is totally optional!

Are there going to be prizes?

You bet! Yes, there will be prizes! For the Grand Prize, you can choose between Apple AirPods, a Keychron Mechanical Keyboard, Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones, an Amazon Echo, or an Apple Watch. The Runner-Up Prize offers a choice between a JBL Speaker, Soundcore Headphones, a Logitech Mouse, or a Wireless Charging Pad. Additionally, there's a Beginner Prize, which includes a $50 gift card of your choice.

Who decides the winners?

Winners are determined by BC professors who volunteer their time as judges and follow a standardized rubric.