Creative Lab: AI Coding Hackathon @ UCSD (TRAE & Z.ai)

About the ChallengeCreative Lab is an 8-hour AI coding hackathon hosted at UC San Diego, in collaboration with TRAE.ai and Z.ai.This event explores a new way of building with AI — "Vibe Coding" — where creativity, rapid prototyping, and collaboration take center stage.Instead of focusing on complex implementation details, participants are encouraged to:• Start with a real idea or problem• Use AI tools to accelerate development• Turn concepts into working prototypesWhether you're building an AI agent, a web app, or a creative tool, this is your chance to experiment and bring your ideas to life.No prior hackathon experience is required.What You'll ExperienceIn just 8 hours, you will go through a full product-building cycle:• Product demos & technical sharing• Hands-on building session (3 hours)• Mentorship support during development• Final project showcase & lightning demoBy the end of the event, your idea will become a working prototype that you can continue to build on.Who Should JoinThis event is open to all students, including:• Beginners interested in AI and coding• Developers exploring AI applications• Students interested in startups or product buildingWe especially encourage participation from students of diverse backgrounds — creativity comes from different perspectives.Tools & TechnologiesParticipants are encouraged to build using modern AI tools, including:• LLMs / AI APIs• AI-powered IDEs (e.g., TRAE)• Web technologies• Any open-source toolsYou are free to choose your stack.Event Schedule (March 31, 2026)13:30 – 14:00Check-in & networking14:00 – 14:30Opening & introduction14:30 – 15:15Product demo & tech sharing15:15 – 18:15Hands-on building session18:15 – 19:00Submission & break19:00 – 19:45Project presentations19:45 – 20:30Awards & closing20:30 – 21:15NetworkingSubmission RequirementsTo complete your submission, you must provide:• A project demo (live or video)• A short description of your project• (Optional) GitHub repositoryJudging CriteriaProjects will be evaluated based on:• Creativity & originality• Technical implementation• Practical impact• Presentation qualityAdditional awards may be announced during the event.LocationUC San DiegoRIMAC Triton Conference Room9860 Hopkins Dr, La Jolla, CAFinal NoteThis is not just a hackathon — it's a space to explore how AI is changing the way we build.Come with an idea, curiosity, and creativity.Leave with a working product.