FAQ

Is the camp free?

This camp is provided free of charge, sponsored by the College of Engineering and Computing and the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of South Carolina along with the support of the National Science Foundation, grant "NSF MRI-HPC-SC AI-for-Science Grant: MRI: Track 2 Acquisition of a High-Performance Computing Cluster for Boosting Artificial Intelligence Enabled Science, Engineering, and Education in South Carolina."

How many students will the camp have?

The camp will have around 30 students. The camp is expected to be held again for the next two years, so students will have the opportunity to apply again if they cannot attend this year.

What is the application deadline?

Applications will conclude on July 15, 2024. All applications must be submitted by this time.

Who can apply?

The camp is limited to high school students who are South Carolina residents. Students should have Python programming background.

How are applicants selected?

Applicants are chosen based on a holistic evaluation. In addition to selecting for academic performance and Python programming ability, the camp will strive for a diverse group of campers of different grade levels, opportunity levels, and backgrounds.

What are the dates and hours of the camp?

The camp runs from July 22 to August 2nd. The first and last day are on-site—all activities on other days are conducted online on a video call via Zoom. See the schedule for details.

What types of activities and topics will be covered?

First day (USC): HPC tour, lectures, HPC access, teambuilding activities

Online days (at home): Tutorials on AI and scientific computing with TA assistance, programming exercises

Last day (USC): Project presentations, award announcements

What should campers bring?

Campers should bring a laptop to campus on the first and last days.

Is lunch provided?

Lunch is not provided: there are many dining opportunities on the campus.

What qualifications do the staff have?

This camp is organized and led by professors at the University of South Carolina. The assistants are PhD graduate students.

Are scholarships or financial aid available?

The camp is free, and campers even have the opportunity to earn a prize.

How do I register my child for the camp?

Link to Google Form

What is the cancellation policy?

This camp asks for significant dedication from its participants. During the period of the camp, students should be fully committed to making the most of the experience.

Can parents visit the camp?

Parents are allowed to join some activities if they desire.