Applications open for Fifth Annual Elon Kickbox

On Nov. 5, the Maker Hub will host an information session about the initiative, which has helped 50 Elon students explore and bring their ideas to life.

The Maker Hub is celebrating five years of the Elon Kickbox program this year.

Since its inception, the program has helped 50 Elon students explore their ideas. Through the initiative, any student with the drive to build something can acquire mentorship, resources and $300 to help bring their ideas to life.

“We’re excited to celebrate five years of the Elon Kickbox initiative,” said Dan Reis, senior instructional technologist for Teaching and Learning Technologies (TLT). “The program has helped dozens of Elon students realize their goals.

Student Alexandra Grillo
Alexandra Grillo ’20

Applications are open through Nov. 18 for 2020 Kickboxers. The Maker Hub will host an information session for interested students on Tuesday, Nov. 5, from 4:15 to 5 p.m. at its downtown Elon location.

To apply, students need to do three things: have an idea, talk to a faculty or staff member about the idea and complete an online application.

Past projects include a 3D-printed prosthetic, an organic chemistry lab, a robotic hand, a drone, jewelry, a smart mirror and more.

Alexandra Grillo ’20 used her 2019 Elon Kickbox to explore ways to offer clinical psychologist experience with clients in a simulated environment.

“I learned how to search for innovative ideas in my daily life,” she said.

Student Daniel Yameen
Student Daniel Yameen ’21

Daniel Yameen ’21, also a 2019 Kickboxer, examined home automation with a Raspberry Pi and mobile phone application, which he used to control appliances and lights around his home. For him, Elon Kickbox is a great way for students to challenge themselves.

“Push your limits,” he said. “Get out of your comfort zone. Learn something new. Have fun.”

Elon Kickbox recipients will be selected and notified by mid-December. To learn more about requirements and sponsor expectations and to view past projects, visit the Maker Hub website.