Longhorn Engineering Summer Camp: Austin Session 1

Camp

The Longhorn Engineering Summer Camp 2027 (LESC 27) is an interactive learning experience designed to introduce rising 8th- and 9th-grade students to the possibilities of engineering. Through engaging presentations and guided, hands-on projects, campers will explore how engineers solve problems and make a difference in everyday life. Students will discover connections between engineering and areas such as art, sports, medicine, transportation, technology, and sustainability.

Each day, campers will learn key engineering fundamentals through presentations from UT Austin faculty and students, followed by activities that bring those concepts to life. Projects focus on a variety of engineering disciplines, giving students opportunities to explore different interests and understand how engineering fields work together. Campers will practice asking questions, brainstorming ideas, designing and building solutions, testing their work, and making improvements based on what they learn.

Along the way, students will strengthen their creativity, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Connecting with UT faculty and students will also help campers learn about studying engineering and the many paths an engineering education can open. No prior engineering experience is needed. Curiosity, a willingness to learn, and an interest in trying something new are encouraged.

Many students who apply to LESC demonstrate academic promise, leadership, and a commitment to their communities. Our application review considers these strengths alongside socioeconomic circumstances and access to educational opportunities. We aim to make engineering experiences accessible to students who may be overcoming social or economic hardships or who have had limited opportunities to explore STEM. Students attending schools without engineering courses or extracurricular STEM opportunities are particularly encouraged to apply.

LESC is not a first-come, first-served program. All complete applications are reviewed by a panel, with consideration given to each student’s interests, experiences, and circumstances. For the San Antonio session, students attending John Jay High School will receive first priority. Applicants who submit a complete application will receive an admissions decision by email no later than mid-May.

LESC 2027 Program Information

Austin Session 1: Tuesday, July 6–Friday, July 9, 2027, on the UT Austin campus. Cost: $100 per participant.

Austin Session 2: Monday, July 12–Thursday, July 15, 2027, on the UT Austin campus. Cost: $100 per participant.

San Antonio: Monday, July 19–Thursday, July 22, 2027, at John Jay High School. Cost: $50 per participant. First priority goes to students attending John Jay High School.

Daily hours: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. for all sessions.