BU Spark! Hosts Welcome Back Mini Hack, Empowering Students to Tackle Social Challenges

Boston University students create solutions for voter access, financial inclusion, and mental health

Boston University’s innovation hub, BU Spark!, kicked off the academic year by hosting their annual Welcome Back Mini Hack on October 5, 2024. Designed as a gateway into tech for underclassmen, this hackathon introduces new students to the world of coding, collaboration, and problem-solving, while fostering interdisciplinary innovation. Participants were tasked with addressing key societal issues across voter access and engagement, financial inclusion, and mental health and wellbeing.

“BU Spark! provides the perfect environment for students to not only develop technical skills but also work on projects that make a real difference,” said Imran, a BU Spark! Hackathon Ambassador. “The energy at this event was incredible—everyone was eager to collaborate and create solutions that could have a lasting social impact.”

Throughout the day, students—many of them new to hackathons—formed teams, brainstormed solutions, and worked on developing project prototypes. With guidance from mentors and Spark! staff, participants received hands-on experience that served as a foundation for their journey in tech. The hackathon also featured workshops on web development, GitHub, and artificial intelligence for students to sharpen their skills. A Paint & Sip workshop added a fun break from coding and gave participants time to relax and recharge.

Managing the event was Raniya Delil, a junior studying Computer Science and Vice President of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). Reflecting on the hackathon’s success, she said, “It’s amazing to see the passion students have for using technology to address societal issues. BU Spark! continues to provide opportunities for students to work on meaningful projects that could spark real change.”

Four projects were awarded prizes totaling $1,250:

• Who’s My Candidate took home the Impact Award for its ChatGPT-powered chatbot that helps users compare presidential candidates’ policies in a user-friendly way.
• The award for Most Engaging Pitch went to DollarLearn, a platform designed to improve financial literacy for first-generation international students through personalized quizzes and educational content.
• Wellnest, an AI-driven medical assistant that tracks patients’ symptoms and side effects, won the prize for Best Technical Execution.
• ElectoRally, which helps college students engage with political candidates and find local voting resources, claimed the top honor as the Best Overall project.

As a gateway into tech, the Welcome Back Mini Hack gives underclassmen a chance to dive into tech while learning how technology can be a catalyst for change. By fostering a supportive, inclusive, and dynamic environment, BU Spark! continues to empower students to create solutions that address pressing societal challenges, ensuring that new talent feels welcomed and inspired in their tech journey.