Singularity’26: A 24-hour Intra-college Hackathon

The most significant learning from this hackathon was the vital role of logistical precision, particularly how consolidating venues post-elimination enhanced both security and energy management. We observed that "structured flexibility"—providing optional breaks like jamming sessions—was essential for sustaining morale without breaking the intense coding flow. For participants, the strict 6:00 PM elimination deadline served as a harsh but necessary lesson in prioritizing a functional MVP over complex, unfinished features. The success of the 2:00 AM mentoring session highlighted that expert intervention is most impactful during the late-night "graveyard shift" when teams are prone to stalling. Additionally, the event reinforced that physical endurance strategies, such as utilizing snack breaks and nap times, are just as critical to success as technical skills. Finally, the transition on Day 2 demonstrated that the gap between submission and presentation is the "golden hour" where the best teams shift focus from code to compelling storytelling. Ultimately, the event proved that a successful hackathon requires balancing rigid deadlines with the human need for rest and recreation.