12 Research and Summer Programs in South Carolina For High School Students

Summary

Polygence is an online research program designed to offer high school students accessible research opportunities, making them more inclusive. The program was created by researchers from Harvard, MIT, and Stanford and provides tailored research projects, allowing students to explore their interests, acquire professional skills, and increase their competitiveness for college admissions.

Summary

Using a game engine, you’ll learn the skills behind graphics, modeling, animation, multi-level game design, artificial intelligence and basic programming techniques, such as if/switch, for/while loop and more. Through instruction by USC’s Computer Science department and hands-on programming, you will work in a group to create a finished product: your own video game.

Summary

The SC Governor’s School offers a two-week Creative Writing program for 9th-grade students. Led by published authors, it focuses on fiction and poetry, providing daily workshops, supportive critique, and exposure to contemporary writers. Participants also present their work in public readings. To apply, students submit an online application with demographic and arts information, along with a writing portfolio. Selected applicants may be asked for a short audition interview video. The program aims to nurture creative writing talents in a friendly and non-judgmental environment, fostering growth and inspiration among young writers.

Summary

The SC Governor’s School offers a two-week intensive Drama program for 9th-grade students. Through comprehensive actor training, specialized exercises, and implementing new acting methods, participants develop increased artistry and confidence. The program culminates in a performance at the end. To apply, students submit an online application with demographic and arts information, along with a video audition. Selected applicants may be invited for an in-person audition based on their video submission and application materials. The program aims to enhance students' acting skills and foster their passion for the dramatic arts in a supportive environment.

Summary

The Music Summer Programs at the SC Governor’s School offer specialized and intensive classical and pre-professional music training for 7th to 9th graders. Led by dedicated artists and teachers, these programs focus on voice, composition, songwriting, jazz band, orchestra, piano ensemble, piano solo, chamber music, and strings. Students receive personalized instruction aimed at enhancing their technique, professionalism, and musicality both as individual musicians and as ensemble performers. Through a combination of individual practice and collaborative work, participants gain confidence and valuable experience in their chosen musical discipline. Each program provides a unique opportunity for young musicians to develop their skills and deepen their passion for music in a supportive and nurturing environment.

Summary

The Visual Arts program at the SC Governor’s School offers a two-week intensive experience for students to hone their artistic skills. Participants engage in hands-on courses covering 2D and 3D mediums, including drawing, printmaking, graphic design, photography, and ceramics. They receive critique from instructors and peers, fostering a deeper understanding of visual language and individual artistic expression. The program culminates in an exhibition where students showcase their work.

Summary

GoSciTech Residential Camp is a week-long residential summer camp for rising 8th, 9th, and 10th graders, offering immersive exploration of science and technology at the GSSM campus in Hartsville, SC. Led by professors from GSSM and other institutions, the camp provides interactive STEM classes, fostering a challenging yet fun learning environment. Participants engage in various subjects tailored to their interests, interact with like-minded peers, and benefit from generous financial aid opportunities. The program emphasizes academic excellence, requiring applicants to demonstrate strong performance in science and math. Tuition covers meals, lodging, staffing, and course materials, with additional aid available. Contact information is provided for further inquiries.

Summary

Top Mock is a prestigious summer program offered by Furman University for high school students with mock trial experience. Over the course of a week, participants receive intensive training from experienced faculty and students in advanced trial advocacy skills. The program focuses on developing expertise in crafting direct and cross-examinations, understanding evidentiary rules, and refining witness portrayals. Students engage in hands-on activities, preparing a case for presentation at the Carroll A. Campbell, Jr. U.S. Courthouse. With guidance from seasoned litigators and acting professionals, participants enhance their public speaking, critical thinking, and teamwork abilities, providing a solid foundation for both mock trial competitions and future academic pursuits.

Summary

Furman University's Band and Orchestra Camp offers a transformative musical experience for students aged 12-18. Held on Furman's picturesque campus, the camp fosters musicianship and lifelong friendships. Participants engage in ensemble rehearsals, sectionals, master classes, and optional private lessons tailored to their skill level. The program includes two concert bands, a symphony orchestra, and a string orchestra, accommodating musicians of various backgrounds and abilities. Students undergo placement auditions and enjoy a diverse curriculum covering musicianship, conducting, and history. With a focus on individual growth within a supportive community, the camp provides opportunities for students to showcase their talents and culminates in concerts for families and friends.

Summary

The Summer Keyboard Institute at Furman University offers a specialized week-long program for intermediate and advanced pianists and organists aged 12-18. Participants focus on classical studio piano and organ as their primary areas of study, with options for secondary areas like ensemble piano and improvisation. The program includes daily musicianship classes, master classes, small group lessons, and practice time, along with optional private lessons. Additional activities include faculty recitals and recreational events. Resident and commuter options are available, with fees covering accommodation, meals, and tuition. The institute emphasizes performance readiness and provides opportunities for students to showcase their skills at the end of the week. The program is supervised by experienced faculty, counselors, and staff, with strict behavioral guidelines and campus accessibility policies in place for student safety.

Summary

The Summer Jazz Camp at Furman University, in collaboration with the Greenville Jazz Collective, offers a dynamic experience for high school students interested in jazz performance. Taking place over five days, the camp provides classes in jazz theory, improvisation, and history, along with ensemble rehearsals and master classes led by experienced jazz musicians. Students have opportunities to perform in big bands and jazz combos, attend faculty recitals, and participate in social events and jam sessions. The camp director, Dr. Matt Olson, along with members of the Greenville Jazz Collective, guide students through an immersive jazz education experience. Residential and commuter options are available, with registration fees covering tuition and meals. Scholarships are also available for those in need of financial assistance. The camp culminates in a final student concert, showcasing the skills and talents developed throughout the week.

Summary

The Young Artist Vocal Experience at Furman University is a one-week intensive summer workshop for young singers aged 14-18. It offers training in various vocal styles including musical theater, opera, sacred music, art song, and oratorio. The program includes voice classes, acting classes, master classes, student recitals, faculty recitals, alumni recitals, and special topic sessions. Participants have the option to receive private lessons for an additional fee. The program accommodates both resident campers and commuters, with fees covering accommodation, meals, and tuition. Scholarship opportunities are available, and payments are subject to a refund policy. The program emphasizes a supportive and supervised environment with activities supervised by Furman music faculty, alumni, and adult staff. The contact information for registration and inquiries is provided on the website.