Rutgers University Summer Camps for Middle School Students - Are They Worth It?
Making your summer more interesting and educational can be as simple as participating in a summer camp. These camps offer opportunities for all ages, including middle school students like yourself, to engage in novel learning experiences within an interactive setting. Rutgers University’s summer camps stand out as potentially transformative experiences, particularly if you have a growing interest in STEM fields. These camps not only enhance your academic credentials but also offer early insights into potential career paths.
What are Rutgers University’s Summer Camps all about?
Rutgers University offers a diverse array of summer camps designed to foster curiosity and deepen knowledge in various subjects. These programs provide middle school students with hands-on, experiential learning opportunities that complement traditional classroom education. Whether you’re interested in exploring nature, delving into the arts, or experimenting with technology, Rutgers has a summer camp tailored to your interests. Here’s a closer look at a few of their offerings:
Nestled in Rutgers Gardens, this month-long camp consists of four sessions focusing on environmental education and agricultural practices. Ideal for students interested in biology and environmental sciences, this camp blends classroom learning with outdoor activities like hiking and studying local wildlife, all in a tech-free environment.
Open to: All primary and middle schoolers aged 6 to 14 years.
Cost: $400 per session.
Held at the Rutgers Makerspace, this 4-day camp immerses students in innovation and invention. Participants tackle real-world problems by designing and developing prototypes, culminating in a Shark Tank-style presentation. This camp was designed for budding engineers and inventors.
Open to: Middle and high school students.
Cost: $450 for early bird registration; $500 after May 3, 2024.
Hosted over five weeks at the Zimmerli Art Museum, this camp lets students explore artistic expression through various mediums. Guided by experienced artists, you will learn everything from outdoor painting, prints, making art with a message, the usage of mixed media, experimental techniques, and more.
Open to: Primary and middle school students aged 7 to 14 years.
Cost: $400 for week 1 + $500 per week for weeks 2-5 for full-day sessions. Half-day sessions are available at reduced rates.
Is it prestigious?
Rutgers summer camps are well-regarded for providing enriching learning experiences and excellent exposure to various fields. Although they may not carry the same level of prestige as some nationally recognized programs, these camps still add significant value to your academic profile, especially given their small batch sizes and somewhat selective admission rates.
Pros and Cons to Consider
Pros:
An enriched learning experience: All of the Rutgers Camps offer deep dives into their respective subjects, enhancing both your knowledge and interest in the field, as well as introducing you to new concepts that can further deepen your passion.
Practical, hands-on pedagogy: The camps are all conducted in person, led by experts, and provide plenty of exposure for practical, hands-on experience. Whether it be creating art, making your own science project, or hiking in nature, you will get to physically make and experience things for yourself.
Good networking opportunity: The camps’ small size and communal environment foster close connections with peers and mentors, which can be beneficial for future academic and career opportunities.
Cons:
The cost may be a hurdle: While Rutgers has made an effort to provide session-level pricing and let you effectively choose what to pay, the cost may be a barrier for some families, and financial aid is limited.
In-person only: All camps require attendance in person, which could be a challenge if commuting to the locations is difficult for you.
Our review – are they worth it?
Rutgers University’s summer camps offer a wealth of experiences, learning opportunities, and exposure that can significantly influence your educational and career trajectory. These camps are particularly worthwhile if you’re looking to explore your field of interest in a hands-on environment without the intensity of more competitive programs.
One other option - Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you want to spend your summer pursuing STEM research, you could also consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.
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