The Maker Mom

Helping parents raise STEM-loving, Maker-friendly kids

Applications Open for the USNA STEM Camp 2022

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Apply now to the United States Naval Academy Summer STEM Camp for high school students.It’s that time again. I know a lot of you are looking for Chicago STEM camps, but if you want a unique experience that will not only be fun but (I’m guessing) will also help your teen stand out in the college admissions process, be sure to look into the USNA STEM Camp. The Summer STEM Program at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland is accepting applications through March 31, 2022 The son of a Maker Mom reader attended a couple of years ago and reportedly had a blast at the camp.

The US Naval Academy Summer STEM camps are offered for rising 9th -11th graders. The application includes not only basic questions about academic background but about physical ability as well. These are selective programs that aim to bring together a diverse group of participants from across the US.

According to their brochure, topics such as Energy and Light, Infrastructure, Transportation and Cybersecurity, Environmental Challenges, Flight and Fluids, Automation, Simulation and Modeling, Biometrics, and Robotics will be covered in ways that allow for hands-on participation.

Parents must cover the cost of transportation to BWI or the Naval Academy in addition to the $900 approximate cost for the program, which covers meals, housing, and materials. This is more twice the price it was a couple of years ago. I’m told it’s not a taxpayer-supported program, so maybe that’s why tuition keeps rising steeply.

Be aware that once they have your child’s email USNA will be contacting them about other recruitment events. Honestly, I’m not a fan of having a young teen on military recruitment lists. That said, I was glad to get a heads-up when USNA folks were passing through town to talk about the Naval Academy. It’s an impressive institution and very selective in recruiting a diverse group of students that are both scholars and athletes.
One of the most important lessons I learned at the meeting is that the application process for USNA is quite rigorous requiring input not only from school counselors and teachers but also from coaches and physicians, not to mention the required nod from a nationally elected representative in your area.
That’s just for the 4-year school, though. The camp application is straightforward. If you have a high school student who loves STEM, don’t pass up a chance to be a part of this prestigious program!