The program provides a blend of academic learning with real-world application through hands-on projects, industry expert interactions, and site visits to San Diego engineering firms.
The Summer Springboard - Fundamentals of Engineering @ UC San Diego program offers high school students an immersive two-week exploration into various engineering disciplines. Participants will engage in hands-on design challenges, developing 3D solutions that cover mechanical, civil, and biomedical engineering principles. Activities include manufacturing artificial limbs to mimic natural biological movement and designing and building scale model structures that adhere to code, zoning, and budget constraints. Students will also learn about engineering innovations from professional experts, network with engineers, and visit local San Diego firms or project sites to connect theory with practice. The program culminates in a capstone project where students can specialize in an engineering field of their choice, gaining practical design experience and a clearer understanding of real-world engineering work.
During week one, students have class from 9am-12pm, Monday - Friday. During week two, students have class from 9am-12pm Monday through Thursday, with Wednesday afternoons dedicated to additional academic time like excursions or speakers.
This program is ideal for college-bound high school students considering a career in engineering who want to explore different engineering fields through hands-on projects and gain a taste of university life.
UC San Diego Campus
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