Explore, Discover, and Grow at Academic Summer Camp

On June 15-20, Taylor University hosted 74 students on campus for a variety of Academic Summer Camps, including Engineering, Songwriting and Worship Arts, Film, Health Science, Creative Writing, Data Science, and Musical Theatre.  

Taylor University is committed to developing servant leaders to minister to a world in need, a process that begins even before students enter college. Each year, Academic Summer Camps provide the opportunity for rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors to pursue their areas of interest and connect with Christ in a lively environment. Students stay in a residence hall with Taylor student counselors, practice Scripture Engagement, attend class, participate in outdoor activities, and engage in worship and a message. 

“Academic camp is a great way for kids to start exploring what they’re curious about, what they might want to study,” explained Brendan Maloney, Director of Academic Camps. “It’s important to us that the kids get that that biblical truth, time with the Lord, and classic summer camp experience, rather than just another week in school.” 

Spiritual Growth and Practical Learning 

Each morning, Dr. Phil Collins, Professor of Christian Ministries, led students through various methods and exercises in studying and engaging with Scripture. More than reading a devotional, Scripture Engagement is about immersing oneself in the Word and coming alive to it in new ways. In fact, every Taylor student earns a Scripture Engagement minor as part of their Foundational Core coursework. 

For the rest of the day, students attended classes taught by Taylor University professors in their respective camps, where they learned techniques and hands-on skills in their content areas.  

For example, Engineering Camp designed, built, and programmed 3D models of the Rice Bell Tower with operating lights. Songwriting and Worship Arts Camp walked through the steps of songwriting and practiced vocal techniques. 

“It’s so exciting to have students come in with a wide range of skillsets and talents and then to work with them to understand the power of collaboration,” said Dr. Todd Syswerda, Professor of Music Composition, Songwriting, and Music Technology. 

Film Camp scripted, shot, and edited a short film, and Data Science Camp produced data analysis projects and gained proficiency in software tools. 

"Each year, I’m impressed by the talent and creativity these students bring in just one week,” shared Dr. Amish Mishra, Assistant Professor of Mathematics. “This time, they were amazed to see how their high school math skills let them dive into real data (football, sports cars, and fast food) and produce stunning projects using software they learned within the week." 

At the end of the week, parents were invited to campus for a closing ceremony and showcase of the students’ work and projects. 

In the evenings, campers participated in a variety of outdoor group activities from Slip 'N Slide to capture the flag to swimming in Taylor Lake. Each night, counselors led worship, and Hall Director David Neel gave a message series on biblical characters and the questions they asked Jesus. Neel led campers to consider the kinds of questions we ask God, how we can relate to biblical characters, and what hesitations hold us back in our relationship with Christ.  

“On the last night of camp, students gathered around to pray and bless one another as they left,” shared counselor Alyssa Tuckey, who led worship throughout the week. “I hope that the students continue seeking the Lord and that their desire to put him first will deepen.”