One hundred of the nation’s top computer science and engineering students are on their way to Chicago.The group will get a taste of the city’s fast-growing technology industry, and to experience one of the country’s most popular music festivals.
ThinkChicago: Lollapalooza 2013 is a four-day event starting on August 1, that will take the group of hand-picked students on tours of local companies, give them an opportunity to hear presentations hosted by 1871, and be introduced to many of Chicago’s most innovative startups. They’ll also get to attend all three days of the Lollapalooza music festival with some backstage privileges.
“We are working to make Chicago a top destination for the most talented young people in the country,” says Mayor Rahm Emanuel. “Lollapalooza is already a remarkable event that draws hundreds of thousands of people from all around the world to downtown Chicago. ThinkChicago: Lollapalooza is one more example of how we are working to strengthen our position as a technology hub and attract the best and brightest to be a part of our thriving technology economy.”
More than 600 students across the country applied for the opportunity. One hundred were chosen based on academic excellence, demonstrated commitment to technology and innovation, and the quality of their application. Last year the City limited the offer to 50 students.
This year the majority of applications came from students in Illinois, Michigan, California, Massachusetts, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and New York. Applicants currently attend prestigious schools like Stanford, Purdue, Cornell, Princeton and Harvard. Students will have opportunities to interview with Chicago companies and talk with recent graduates who are currently working in the City’s technology industry.
The Mayor’s Office is organizing ThinkChicago: Lollapalooza and is partnering with seven Chicago technology companies and entrepreneurial groups, as well as the University of Illinois and Lollapalooza.
In 2012, Lollapalooza attracted thousands of tourists and locals creating an economic impact of $120 million, and generating an estimated $93 million in local spending at hotels, restaurants and clubs. ❒
[Photos of Lollapalooza concert-goers enjoying the balmy summer evening at Grant Park in 2012 courtesy of lollapalooza.com]
