About this camp
Dive into the exciting world of engineering this summer! Through the Experience, Creativity, Excitement, and Learning (ExCEL) Camp, you’ll explore how engineers plan, design, and build solutions that shape our future. Through hands-on projects in our laboratories and design studios, you’ll collaborate with peers, unleash your creativity, and discover the power of innovation.
This week-long experience combines technical learning with leadership development and teamwork. From designing and testing your own creations to engaging in fun activities that build community, you’ll leave inspired and ready to make an impact as a future engineer.
The camp supports participants who are interested in pursuing a future engineering degree and who demonstrate financial need and a commitment to increasing access to the field of engineering.
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Essential Information
Prerequisites
Some basic knowledge of math and physics may be helpful, but this course is designed for high school students with little to no experience in engineering.
Parent’s Handbook
Instructor
Mrs. Hillary Tanner is a Senior Lecturer in the College of Engineering at the University of Georgia, teaching engineering graphics to mostly first-year students. A Double Dawg, she earned her bachelor’s in Agricultural Engineering and master’s in Environmental Economics and Policy from UGA. She previously worked as a Research Engineer conducting watershed assessments across Georgia before switching to full-time teaching. Hillary advises the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and promotes engineering through outreach activities like Introduce a Girl to Engineering. Outside class, she spends time at the ball field and gym with her husband and two boys. This is her fifth year as a Summer Academy Instructor.
Dr. Alison Banka is a lecturer at the University of Georgia’s College of Engineering, teaching upper-level undergraduates in the School of Chemical, Materials, and Biomedical Engineering. She joined in 2022 after earning her degrees from the University of Michigan, where she enjoyed teaching labs and researching blood cell interactions during blood flow. Alison is also the faculty advisor for the UGA student chapter of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers. She loves introducing engineering and science to learners of all ages. Outside work, she enjoys baking, football, and outdoor activities with her dog. This is her fourth year as a Summer Academy Instructor.
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Minors Protection at UGA
This Policy recognizes the special duty of care and supervision when working with minors and sets forth operational requirements to enhance the protection of minors.
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